Articles

There are still positive signs in tourism and travel trends despite the global economic recession. This year, 2009, has been described as one of stagnation, according to a study compiled by IPK International for the World Travel Trends Report produced by the German trade show ITB which takes place in Berlin on March 11-15. It adds that new tourist arrival records are likely to be broken in 2011-2012.

According to the report, imminent negative developments will impact strongest on North America, Europe and the business travel sector, rather than on holiday travel. Interest in short and medium-range travel destinations will increase over the next two years. This is good news for us due to the Caribbeanʼs close proximity to the United States.

The findings indicate that the prospects for the travel market recovering vary significantly depending on the region. For example, South America could emerge from the global economic crisis by the end of 2009.

There are positive signs for Europe as well as even in times of great economic hardship people are unwilling to give up holidays. According to a Europe-wide poll for the European Travel Monitor in 2008, 48 per cent of respondents said they would definitely take a holiday in 2009, and that it was most likely they would travel more often than in 2008.

32 per cent said they would travel at least as often as in 2008, and only 14 per cent said they would travel less while only six per cent of those polled said they would not travel at all.

Figures within Europe vary considerably per country. Norwegians and Finns are eager to travel in 2009; Italians and Britons are less keen to make any plans. Europeans earning in Euro who retain their jobs during the global economic recession will find non-Eurozone destinations more affordable and are poised to choose destinations closer to home.

Germany and the UK together account for 35 per cent of total European outbound trips. With these economies in recession, destinations around the world may have to look to new European source markets such as Russia, Finland, Norway and Sweden, which according to the study all posted above average outbound growth for much of 2008.
These source markets should be looked into.

The US cruise industry organization Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) estimates that 13.5 million people will take a cruise worldwide in 2009, an increase of 2.3 per cent over 2008 that saw 13.2 million travellers take a cruise.

North America accounted for 10.15 million passengers in 2007 while the number of internationally sourced passengers is growing dramatically year after year. Through the third quarter of 2008, CLIA lines saw a 30 per cent annual increase in international passengers.

This is great news for the Port of St. Maarten that annually attracts over 1.3 million cruise passengers.

CLIAʼs 2008 Cruise Market Profile suggests that almost 34 million Americans intend to take a cruise within the next three years.

According to the CLIA, although the global economic crisis may have an impact on consumer intentions, the statistics give the cruise industry confidence that demand for cruising will continue to be strong.

Despite the enormity of the challenges we face as an island nation, there are still positive developments. As long as we do our homework and work together with stakeholders, we will be able to ride out this economic storm.

Roddy Heyliger

It might turn out to be better to be held up ten times or more, disrespected, insulted, harassed and even intimidated by police-officers than being held up just only one time by an armed criminal out on ‘patrol'.
This is about the thrust of an argument made by a caller to the midday program on PJD-2, of Mr. Lloyd RICHARDSON.
What more beautiful slogan for the police-force !
Nevertheless, the poor most popular talk-show host really got a ‘beating' from most of his callers, for him being hard on the way police has been conducting traffic controls in recent weeks.
Although, I myself and ‘Mr. Popular" certainly are not chummy, chummy friends to say the least, I understood where he was coming from and admired him defending what he believed in.
I did not hear Mr. RICHARDSON necessarily disagreeing with the need for a strong and intense police-presence and operation.
His position was, that there should be a better way than has been the case too often in recent times, when drivers had been stopped by police-officers.
From what I understood, Mr. RICHARDSON, made a strong case where the police-officers, if necessary use of force, but that such should be done with respect and intelligence and not simply by using brute and blind force, when such is totally un-called for.
In that regards, I happen to agree with Mr. RICHARDSON.
However, having stated that, it is clear that the situation presently is very difficult and un-clear for many law-abiding citizens, in terms of being sure HOW to deal with the police when stopped.
At the same time, there is a lot of pressure on the police-force as well in trying to protect the island and trying to send out a strong signal to the many criminal elements on the island.
In other words, no-one disagrees with the need for very strong police actions to ‘clean up' the island; the question is how best and most effective to get the job done.
I would like to believe that intelligence would help and not hurt in searching for the best ‘modus operandi' .
Therefore, I think that it is HIGH time for some-one in authority to bring clarity in this matter.
Some-one who can go on all radio- and television programs and explain the public in detail, what the objectives are of certain actions of the police and very importantly EXPLAIN the public exactly how they should respond to the police when stopped and questioned.
At the same time, such person in authority should also educate and inform police-officers, that we do not live in a police-state, and that many people are conscious well-educated people they can not simply ‘bark at' and threaten, because they ask questions.
That in fact people can tape or even video-tape them (without their knowledge) and have these reports aired (online), which can not only seriously undermine police authority, but can lead to people taking very serious legal actions against, cops gone mad.
In other words, it is time that both the public and police-officers as well are instructed of how to deal with each other, in a way that is productive.
Perhaps, the police can publish in the daily papers ‘manual' for the public to know how to respond to the police and what their rights are as well, such as where to complain.
I can be wrong, but I suggest the best person to come forward to educate the people on how best to respond to being stopped by police and who can also educate the police-officers how to be very professional, without being a ‘sissy' is the Chief-Commissioner of the island.
It is time, for real leadership on all levels, if we want anyone to take our ‘quest' for country-status' serious.
I also, wonder, why the police-officers on the island, never found it fit that every officer carries a badge with his or her name on it, so that the public also know who it is dealing with and if necessary in the future refer to that officer, not only to file complain, but also to commend !
Please let us get more professional.
Mr. Commissioner of Police, will you stand up and create a ‘police- public-partnership' in order to clean up the ‘Friendly island' and prevent ‘police-public-antagonism'.

Leopold JAMES

Do not despair, but join us in restoring NATIONtalk on the air.

As producer of the radio-program NATIONtalk, which was removed from the air under pressure from certain anti-St.Martin agents, it behooves me to respond to the many people who have contacted us expressing dis-belief and a profound sense of loss that this program at present no longer is aired.
No one can dispute any longer that NATIONtalk has come to represent the identity, the heartbeat, the concerns, aspirations and in fact, the very conscious soul of all native-indigenous St. Martin people.
In addition over the years NATIONtalk has earned the respect and interest of a growing number of expatriates, St. Martiners-at-heart residing on the island, as well as many foreign investors, who have discovered the potential of the program NATIONtalk as a most unique, credible and effective platform for consensus-building in the vitally important process of nation building, which is part of any overall sustainable and stable development on the island, including being the strongest and most logical basis for any new constitutional development.
Many of our former listeners are now in fact experiencing serious psychological and physical withdrawal symptoms, because the program had become integral part of their lives just like their lives had become integral part of what NATIONtalk was all about.
Especially, since the program has been off the air for a number of weeks now, a sense of frustration and anger is starting to set in, in the minds of many people.
This is exactly what the program had always tried to prevent, since it could lead to serious social consequences.
Therefore, I have decided to inform you our many supporters of NATIONtalk, that we expect to be back on the air and online in the near future.
In the interim we are in the process of checking off all viable options, including approaching various radio-stations on the island.
We will report back on their responses in due time.
However, there are other creative options, including more technological advanced ones being looked into as well.
In ending, in preparation of the 'new dawn' of NATIONtalk, we invite especially those persons, interested in becoming involved as hosts, co-hosts, contributors, IT-specialists and otherwise to contact myself or any other associates of NATIONtalk for more information.
Also, you can contact your favorite radio-stations and also make your suggestions to them directly in terms of your need for NATIONtalk as a major platform for information, education and inspiration.
Rest assured, that as long as God gives me life, together with my team, Jesse, Etique, Chris, Diane, Larissa, and many others, I will continue doing my part in promoting a new, and meaningful Partnership with relevant stakeholders, regardless of creed, color or religion to contribute towards the St. Martin nation building process, based on preservation of our ancestral rights, while embracing diversity that brings along added value to our nation.

Thank you for your support and trust.

LEOPOLD JAMES

The current global crisis has called upon nationʼs around the globe to take decisive action to address the economic situation. The global financial crisis has precipitated a worldwide recession. One regional commentator stated that one would have thought that, in the present situation, every hour counts. It is not a time for days and weeks to pass, referring to some Caribbean islands that have taken a lackadaisical attitude towards what happening around them.

Without a doubt, a concerted approach to combat the challenges which the nation faces is critical. Effort is being made. About three weeks ago a copy of the draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that outlines how all parties, including unions and other organizations, will assist in combating the global crisis was presented to Commissioner of Economic Affairs Maria Buncamper-Molanus. After a review by government of the MOU, plans are to organize an economic summit in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce.

In the meantime, a proposal for a four million dollar tourism marketing stimulus fund to be used for a short-term intensive emergency marketing and promotional campaign in St. Maartenʼs primary and secondary visitor source markets has been put forward by the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA) in conjunction with the Tourist Bureau.

For the mid and long-term, the island needs a multi-million dollar marketing/visitor relations plan to drive visitor arrivals from all source markets. This multi-million dollar campaign would take into consideration the 2009-2010 tourism season, in assuring that the fallout from that season does not be a catastrophe.

St. Maarten doesnʼt have the right to borrow on the capital markets. Leader of Government Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams already pointed out last week that there is no budgetary surplus to juggle things around. Antillean Central Bank President Emsley Tromp stated that to stimulate investment, government itself needs to boost the economy which possibly can only be done by acquiring cash injections from the capital markets. Our island nation has a good case to have the restriction on the island borrowing repealed, so loans could be sought. This is an unprecedented global economic crisis since World War II which requires extra ordinary measures.

Regional independent island nation governments are moving post haste to minimise the impact of the global crisis and bracing for any eventuality. The Government of Barbados is putting greater focus on tourism to ensure they get their fair share of global travellers by preparing another supplemental budget to present to the House of Assembly which would take the overall tourism budget to an unprecedented US$50 million.

The islands of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) have developed a plan to maintain a level of ongoing economic activity, by supporting the tourism industry in cost reduction and marketing strategies, engaging in targeted public sector investment programmes which would have a multiplier effect and providing efficient, social, safety net programmes, to address the needs of the poor, the indigent and the vulnerable.

The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) has gone as far to establish a contingency team to maintain constant oversight over the developing situation, as well as to develop contingency plans should an additional crisis arise.

The Cayman Islands has presented a US$160 million capital spending budget for 2009-2010 as part of the governmentʼs economic stimulus package. The government is also bracing for the very worse of the economic fallout from the US economy to be felt in the second half of 2009.

Our nationʼs resilience package that would be in response to this crisis must be able to carry us through what has been characterized as the deepest recession in history, arising from the worst global economic decline in 60 years.

We need a resilience package that will avert an even sharper downturn in our economy due to the global recession which would lessen the more lasting damage to our economy if we didnʼt introduce such a package.

Our island nation at the same time is moving towards country status which should materialize sometime in 2010. Economic forecasters at this time say the global recession is also expected to continue in 2010. Therefore, as the birth of country St. Maarten may also coincide with the global recession, our nationʼs resilience package must also be one that puts us on track where country St. Maarten emerges with strength when the global economy recovers, therefore enhancing our capabilities and competitiveness as a service oriented economy for the long-term.

As a nation, we must remain optimistic that success can be achieved, despite the enormity of the challenges we face. As long as we work in an efficient, competitive and productive manner, our future survival in a rapidly changing and restructured environment will be assured. The urgency is now and the way we deal with the current crisis will determine how we ride out this economic storm.

Believe in yourself, have confidence.

RODDY HEYLIGER

The Island Government has introduced a revised labour policy effective January 12. It has lead to much discussion and a signature drive by the Comprehensive Business Association which calls on the Island Government to suspend the implementation of the revised policy and to reopen discussion and debate on the document.

The Island Government has established a tripartite committee with representation of business, labour and government to monitor and evaluate the revised policy and make recommendations with respect to any adjustments that should be made.

One can say that the revised labour policy is a work in progress and the same can be said for the Cayman Islands which are also going through a similar exercise. We may need to learn from other islands about their experiences since they also have to import labour in order to service their economic engine.

Cayman Islands immigration and labour officials have come to the realization that the way they have been trying to balance the work force is not working. According to Chief Immigration Officer Franz Manderson, there are approximately 25,800 active work permits, including temporary and government contracts, held by foreigners in Cayman (population is approx. 48.000).

Manderson estimates some 11,000 of those permits or contracts were held by Jamaicans, another 2,900 by Filipinos, and about 2,000 by citizens of the United Kingdom.

The majority of work permit or contract holders in Cayman come from just seven areas; Jamaica, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Honduras and India. Workers from the rest of the world's countries make up less than one-fifth of all the work permits held in Cayman.

Mr. Manderson said that, previously, immigration officials and regulatory board members have tried to even out demographics in the work force by policing the hiring within various companies. For instance, if Romanian nationals occupied 90 per cent of the jobs at a particular business that company would be encouraged to hire people who were not from Eastern Europe.

Manderson added that some flexibility would be required rather than setting arbitrary limits on either total numbers of workers from a certain country, or the types of jobs which can be held. There are also some mixed reviews with respect to national hiring quotas.

The Cayman's are introducing a new round of employment regulations which entails that companies that employ work permit holders will soon be required to become accredited by the Cayman Islands Immigration Department.

The policy initiative is to streamline work permits and immigration policies with teams dedicated to the financial services and tourism industries, and establish a third group to manage other sectors. Eventually the teams will process more than 500 per week.

The Immigration Accreditation System, as it is called, will also create separate tiers of rankings for businesses, from those that are least compliant with the country's Immigration regime to those that are most active in the community and do the best job at training and promoting Caymanians.

Under the initial plan, all businesses in Cayman that hold Trade and Business Licenses and that employ at least one work permit holder will have to fill out a form that will be available on the Immigration Department website. The form will judge the business on six separate criteria, which include: compliance with Cayman's licensing regulations, talent development programmes, employment practices, support for community programmes, Caymanian business ownership, and the company's activity in creating new job opportunities.

Based on the information provided, and research by Immigration Department officials, the companies will then either be accredited or not. If they are granted accreditation, they will then be ranked in one of six tiers by Immigration. If companies are not accredited they will not be able to get new work permits, or have any current work permits renewed. Higher-ranked employers will be given certain benefits under the islands' Immigration regime. The ranking will be based on a points system.

The rankings in the tier system are as follows: Probationary accreditation: This accreditation level is the lowest one, which confirms a company is meeting all legal requirements to operate in Cayman, including providing adequate health care and pension benefits to all its employees. These companies can receive work permit renewals only; they cannot apply for new permits.

Approximately 4,000 companies in the Cayman Islands will be affected by the new Immigration Accreditation System. The idea of the system is to firstly, help weed out unscrupulous employers that are abusing their workers and abiding by the laws of the land, and secondly, it would reward companies that are good community partners.

Companies that do not employ any work permit holders and individual households that employ people like domestic helpers or cooks will not need to apply for accreditation.

The St. Maarten Island Government's tripartite evaluation committee should look into the experience of the Cayman Islands and other islands within the region in order to develop a system that is most suitable to our own labour market. The ultimate goal is to ensure a proper balance in our workforce.

Roddy Heyliger

Cole Bay: --- Parents and students of the Starlight Education Center can breathe a sigh of relief as the school is set to open sometime this week.
Management of the educational center told parents yesterday afternoon that several businesses came together in finding a solution for the school. One of those persons in the private sector is former civil servant Roberto Richardson who is spearheading the relief for the school. Mrs. Carmen Hodge told her parents that there was absolutely nothing more she could have done to reopen the school since she lost over 400,000 in investments over the years. She said the assistance that is given to the school is nothing but God in disguise.
Richardson said he was contacted by a particular businessman who wanted to give financial assistance to the school after they read the newspapers on January 9. He said since then he has been working tirelessly to find a solution to the problem. That solution he said was to find the rent arrears that the school did not pay. Richardson said the money is already in place for the arrears as well as for the rest of the school year. However, he did not want to set a date for the re-opening since he still has some key elements to work out with the proprietor of the school building as early as today.

Richardson also explained that he as well as the management of the school in the person of Carmen Hodge is working very closely with the education department to determine the future of the school which caters to undocumented children on St. Maarten.
The former civil servant said the island government is trying its best to implement compulsory education and that the monies for such are already in the 2009 budget.
However, he said as a St. Maartener he is thankful for schools like Starlight Education and the others that have taken on the responsibility to educate the undocumented children. "While education is the responsibility of the island government I personally must give credit to Mrs. Hodge who has been trying to provide education to so many children without the necessary assistance. As for me I am stuck with the school now since only three weeks ago I realized how valuable schools such as this are to St. Maarten especially to know that the Starlight Education existed since 1992." Richardson said.

Parents and students of the Starlight Education Center are asked to monitor the newspapers and radio for the exact date of opening Mrs. Hodge said.

Philipsburg- If nothing is done to arrest the rapidly deteriorating situation, over 2,000 jobs could be at risk depending on what is done to mitigate the global meltdown. Sounding the serious warning, the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association, SHTA, in conjunction with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, has proposed a US$4.1 million tourism marketing stimulus fund, which will be used for an emergency short-term intensive marketing and promotional campaign in St. Maarten's primary and secondary visitor source markets. This is the minimum amount needed right now to increase visitor expenditure and save the jobs that would be at stake, should the current situation continue unabated, the two entities stressed.
The private sector is expected to contribute at least six hundred thousand dollars of the total amount. The fund will be managed and monitored by the Economic Recovery Fund (ERF) Committee, which has proven experience in executing emergency and recovery tourism marketing programs from Hurricane Luis to 9-11.
The proposed fund is deemed necessary given the gloomy economic news issuing from recession-ravaged United States, where majority of the island's tourists originate. Similarly, the global financial crisis is also affecting the island's other source markets such as Canada, Europe and South America, making the outlook for the year ahead rather bleak.
Such is the impact of this crisis that the chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and minister of tourism for Antigua & Barbuda, Harold Lovell, recently predicted a decrease of between 20 and 30 percent in visitor arrivals to the Caribbean in the first quarter of 2009.
"What is most important is to maintain job levels. We must stabilize the economic situation and minimize job losses," he was quoted as stating.
The effect of the global meltdown has begun to be felt on St. Maarten, where hotels have been reporting significant drops in bookings, and where they have refrained from hiring additional staff during the high season as is customary.
Almost 3,000 persons work in the hotel and restaurant sector of the island's tourism industry, according to the 2007 figures of the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). The Wholesale and Retail sector employed 4,315 workers, while over 2,000 people work in the Construction and Real Estate sectors respectively. In addition, another 1,784 people in the Transport and Storage sector.
"All these sectors, all these workers, will be affected by the ongoing financial and economic crises in our primary source markets," SHTA president Emil Lee, stressed.
The overriding thrust of the joint SHTA, St. Maarten Tourist Bureau proposal is therefore to secure jobs.
According to this proposal, the main development goals towards which this project would contribute are outlined in the Tourism Master Plan:

 An increase in tourism revenue and foreign exchange for St. Maarten
 Maintain and increase ADR (average daily revenue) for hotels
 Improving the living standards in St. Maarten;
 Consolidating and strengthening St. Maarten's competitive position in the Caribbean;
 Increasing the number of annual tourist arrivals for St. Maarten;
 Developing St. Maarten as a ‘year round' tourist destination
 Increasing and maintaining year-round employment

The project goals related to these development objectives include:

a) To increase the number of visitors from the various source markets during peak, shoulder and slow seasons;
b) To support marketing and promotional efforts in a number of important existing markets;
c) To support marketing and promotional efforts by travel wholesalers in key tourist markets.
d) To support the scheduled and current airlift servicing St. Maarten from the various gateway source markets.

The idea is to execute a series of cohesive and integrated marketing activities, geared towards stimulating traffic from the various markets covering the remaining high season and the Summer and Fall periods.

Noting that tourism is the backbone of the island's economy, contributing some US$500 million in direct revenue, while employing about two-thirds of the resident population, the joint proposal emphasizes the adverse effect of the global economic crisis on St. Maarten, pointing out that it is resulting in a loss of business of between 30% and 50%.

According to the SHTA and St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, the crisis has led concretely to
• A stagnation in the projected number of tourist arrivals
• A strong decrease in the average daily rates
• A deteriorating tourism market share among all segments
• A decline in tourism expenditures, including cruise passenger expenditures, as a result of the economic crisis.
• Loss of Government revenue
• Pressure on Infrastructure development and training

Citing various sources and statistics, the SHTA and St. Maarten Tourist Bureau stressed that though St. Maarten is a resilient destination, it will be a challenging year as a result of the "meltdown" (housing, transportation, hurricanes, financial - consumer confidence) with reductions of almost 30% in visitors from the arrivals."

SHTA is of the opinion that, despite restrictions on borrowing by the Island Territory, similar to the situation after 911, flexibility should be shown to the Island Territory in terms of being able to borrow on the market comparable to what was done with the central bank. Attracting a soft loan on the local market could be used as an economic stimulus program, specifically geared towards the marketing stimulus program. It is time that all parties in this case again think outside the box similar to 2001.

AIRPORT----One year after negotiations with representatives of Jet Blue the airline made its inaugural flight to the island from Boston last Saturday. Jet Blue flight 797 arrived here earlier than scheduled because of an apparent tail wind.

In welcoming the airline and its crew President of the Princess Juliana International Airport Eugene Holiday in welcoming the crew to St. Maarten said it could not be a better day to welcome and expand the relationship to the with the with Jet Blue than on St. Valentine's Day. In retrospect he spoke of the 3.3 % decline in passenger movement in 2008 and the "uncertain global economic environment of 2009" and added that it was particularly pleasing to witness the touch down of Jet Blue on St. Maarten.
Holiday said the objective of the airport is to "open direct air service between PJIAE and major metropolitan areas such as Boston." He indicated that this did not come without difficulty and how important it is to have reliable partners such as Jet Blue in these unfavorable economic times.

The airport President expressed appreciation to the management and the Jet Blue organization for the confidence shown by expanding their service to St. Maarten/St. Martin which serves to solidify PJIAE position as a regional leader. He noted that with Jet Blue's new service is a further improvement and expansion in air service for the passengers and stressed that they are committed to working with Jet Blue and the government to develop and strengthen and "grow this new Boston St. Maarten route as well as the existing JFK St. Maarten route.

Commissioner of Aviation Sarah Wescott Williams in her remarks said in jest that St. Maarten had put in "a special order that are usual hot sun was tempered for you and the breeze that is felt though windy and calm that blows over St. Maarten." She congratulated the teams headed by Commissioner Roy and Drs. Eugene Holiday and the management of Jet Blue for their confidence in the island.
She alluded to the fact that the airport had experienced a downturn in passenger arrival and stressed that their will be discussions on if the decrease in passenger arrival is acceptable, excepted or anticipated. She personally feels the airport needs to be congratulated for maintaining the level of passenger arrival during the very difficult year of 2008.
While the discussions are going to take place it is her hope that we focus on 2009 and beyond and added that with this in mind it is good to know that the year has been opened with an important addition to flights and visitors to St. Maarten.
She stressed that she was sure that the passengers who came to St. Maarten on the flight will come back and encourage others to use Jet Blue flight from Boston to St. Maarten. In agreeing with the president of PJIAE, she said that we will witness added flights to St. Maarten.
She told the crew that she is aware that there is not an extra crew on the flight so that they could have enjoyed what the passengers would be enjoying and assured them that they will hear the tales from them. She is certain that they will get the opportunity in the future to spend sometime on the island. She told the captain and the crew to convey to the management of Jet Blue to that the government of St. Maarten will do what ever necessary ensure that the relationship continues to grow between and the airline and St. Maarten and called on JetBlue to be a partner in the development of the island.
Commissioner of Tourism Roy Marlin gave an overview of the relationship with Jet Blue when it started in 2007 and said that "it took a lot of convincing" to management of the airline that St. Maarten was the destination after they had heard that Jet Blue was planning to expand to the Caribbean. He said that with the inaugural flight from Boston to St. Maarten has always been attractive for visitors from the New England area.
He explained that there have been numerous charters coming out of Boston over the years and he is optimistic that with the weekly flight coming out of Boston it will increase to daily flights.
He stated that in a recent meeting with representatives of Jet Blue they are committed to the marketing plan since he feels that they could make the numbers grow to 80% to 85% to justify the increase in flights to the island. He said that St. Maarten is committed to "this marriage" and they are also dedicated to continue with the long term relationship.
Supervisor of Jet Blue Supervisor Mark Boasman in his comments said that with Jet Blue service to the destination it will give more people the opportunity to visit the island. He mentioned that although the relationship between Jet Blue and has only commenced just a few years ago he mentioned that the passengers who travel on the airline has made it a proven success.
He indicated that with the demand for the destination the airline also felt that it was time to increase their flights to destination St. Maarten. He explained that St. Maarten is an important destination in the Caribbean network which is a part of more than 80 daily flights to popular destinations during the winter season making Jet Blue the second largest airline in the Region.
The airline is looking forward to provide a comfortable experience to their passengers who travel between St. Maarten and the United States.
The activities concluded with the Commissioner of Tourism Roy Marlin presenting Captain Michael Toby and his crew who piloted flight 797 to St. Maarten with tokens of appreciation and a plaque on behalf of the government and the people of St. Maarten.

Philipsburg: ---- The island council meeting which was called by the National Alliance faction had to be postponed to next week for the lack of quorum. All five members of the National Alliance Faction showed up for the meeting which was to deal with the building permits policy and the economical situation of the island.

The Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams had already indicated to the chairman of the island council that the Democratic Party faction was not going to attend that meeting claiming that at least two of the commissioners would have been off island. In closing the meeting Lt. Governor and Chairman of the Island Council Franklyn Richards said based on the rules of order the meeting had to be postponed for the lack of quorum however the meeting can be called again within the next eight days. Richards already hinted that the meeting will be called on Wednesday next week.

Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin in a statement to the press shortly after said the Democratic Party is creating nothing more but a smoke screen which is to cover up for their internal problems. He said the National Alliance requested this meeting on Thursday last week which gave the Governor one full week to schedule the meeting, while he had to give the Island Council members four days notification.

Marlin said the accusations by the Democratic Party against the governor saying he is in some sort of conspiracy with the National Alliance to schedule the meeting which would be convenient to the National Alliance is absolutely not true. He said this had nothing to do with his travelling schedule, instead the National Alliance requested the meeting in the week National Alliance island councilmen and Senators Franz Richardson and Marlin were to be on the island.

The two agenda points he said are government's policy on the issuance of building permits and the economic situation of the island.
Marlin further explained the commissioner of Public Works Theo Heyliger was in the hall prior to the convening of the meeting but he Heyliger did not sign in for the meeting which he believes is in keeping with the letter of the leader of the Democratic Party.
The NA leader said if the government was serious they would have allowed the meeting to open yesterday since they have the first rounds in which they would have presented their case and ask their questions.
He said the DP faction could have then joined the meeting after and by then they would have had enough time to prepare the answers to the questions that were asked. This way government would have had enough time to prepare their answers while the two commissioners who are off island could have joined the meetings when they return.

Marlin said it is evident that the island government has internal problems and they don't know how to deal with the issues at hand.
He said the Democratic Party has problems with the commissioner of economic affairs whom he said is continuing to pressure government to implement certain policies.
Marlin said during the last island council meeting their was an agenda point to amend the business license ordinance which the commissioner in charge wants on the floor of the island council. He said when this point was finally on the agenda point the meeting was abruptly adjourned.

Marlin explained that while the chairman claimed the meeting was adjourned to give members of the island council the opportunity to go to a funeral the fact of the matter that was not the case. He said later the members of the island council received a letter telling them that them that the executive council had decided to withdraw that agenda point.
He said this is clear indication that the DP are having internal problems and if they are not willing to talk about those problems then that is their right but they should not twist matters which would make it appear as if it's the Lt. Governor and the National Alliance that are playing games.

Marlin made clear he does not schedule island council meetings instead he request meetings. He said now that the Lt. Governor has decided to reconvene this meeting next week while two members of the National Alliance would be in parliament then he would deal with the issue by withdrawing the request.

Marlin said with these developments it is a clear sign of the lack of good governance on the part of the Democratic Party who are misusing their powers. He said the DP feels because they are in government with the majority of seats but that he says that still has to be clarified since the DP has five seats and the support of Independent member Louis Laveist who is sometimes are there and other times he is missing in action.

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Education Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, met with St. Maarten students last Friday in Florida's state capital, Tallahassee where according to Wescot the meeting was well received by the students.

Students studying at Florida State University (FSU), Tallahassee Community College (TCC) and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), were invited to the meeting by the St. Maarten Tallahassee Student Association which was chaired by the organizations President Dominique Hodge.

A presentation was given by Commissioner Wescot about the current process to attain country status within the Dutch Kingdom. An update was also provided about other developments such as infrastructural projects, national health insurance plan, and expansion plans of the St. Maarten Medical Center as well as developments in education just to mention a few.

Calvin Mardembrough provided clarity about Study Financing matters. At the meeting, Ramon Alexander, a young dynamic graduate of FAMU who is presently working at the Mayor's office, volunteered to assist students who were experiencing some bottlenecks at their school.

During the meeting, representatives from FAMU were present to provide information and answer student questions.

The St. Maarten Students Association has been in existence since December 2007. It was formed by Calvin Mardembrough and has been lead by Dominique Hodge, a graduate of Milton Peters College, (presently enrolled at FSU) who was re-elected last December as the organizations President.

The objective of the association among others is to create a better social and cultural atmosphere for all St. Maarten students in Tallahassee; to assist all St. Maarten students with their transition; to assist in resolving any problems that St. Maarten students may encounter while studying in Tallahassee and to promote awareness of St. Maarten culture to the benefit of the students and the Tallahassee community in general.

"During my deliberations with educational officials from the three Florida universities in Tallahassee, all were impressed by the St. Maarten students and implore their attitude and behaviour while studying at their institutions. They were very proud of them.

"The St. Maarten Student Association is a very active group. I was very impressed with them and they shared their plans for 2009 which also includes information sessions with parents and students here in St. Maarten during the summer break," Commissioner of Education Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS).

 

MARIGOT-A decision had to be taken by the Gendarmes to bring in at least 20 more personnel to assist with the rising crime rate on the French side of the island. The information was released during a press conference held at the Sous Prefecture yesterday.
Head of the gendarmerie Loic Baras said a spike and increase in the amount of incidents this past week resulted in them having to recruit more manpower.

During the same press conference the delinquency report for the year 2008 was also released. The figures show that delinquency fell by 2.3% while the specifics on crimes such as thefts, armed robberies and burglaries decreased by 14%.

The results were gathered by the special team VAMA which was installed in September last year.

Baras said they solved 77 % of the armed robberies and other crimes that occurred in 2007 to 2008.

He said while general break ins to homes and businesses fell. Pre-mediated murders increased. Gendarmes had to deal with five murder investigation during 2008 while four of which was solved.
There was a 37% increase in domestic violence with four incidents involving weapons. While other related violence dropped by 25%.

Investigations into drug trafficking also bore positive results in 2008. Gendarmes seized 27 kilos of cocaine, 10 kilos of cannabis, over 50,000 dollars in cash, and a large number of stolen items say Baras.

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Education Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, based on discussions with Tallahassee Community College (TCC) officials last week Friday during her working visit to the City of Tallahassee, is very encouraged with the intentions of TCC to re-establish its relationship with St. Maarten where it concerns instates tuition for the island's students.

TCC several years ago discontinued the instate tuition program for St. Maarten students due to a policy change within the US.

Another major development is that TCC is willing to allow St. Maarten students to complete their first two years of college at the former and then be able to transfer to Florida State University (FSU).

All departments at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) were present for the meeting with Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams and Study Financing Head Calvin Mardembrough last Friday.

During the meeting, FAMU officials provided feedback about how St. Maarten students are doing at the educational institution and what their studies entail. Commissioner Wescot also provided information about developments on the island especially constitutional renewal and education.

Educational officials from TCC, FSU and FAMU were desirous in continuing with the relationship that has been developed over the years with St. Maarten based under the sister-sister city agreement that exist between the City of Tallahassee and the Island Territory of St. Maarten.

"I am very pleased with the deliberations that have taken place and one can summarize that the relationship between the City of Tallahassee and the Island Territory of St. Maarten is as stronger than ever. This has been a relationship that has developed during the past 10-years.

"These are the indications that I have received from the officials. The same can be said from the relationships with the various educational institutions. From here onward, we will continue to build upon the different opportunities that are offered in the sister-sister agreement and continue to open up more possibilities for our nation's youth where overseas study is concerned," Commissioner of Education Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS).

Philipsburg:---On February 26th, 2008 the Sector Economy & Tourism presented a proposal to the Executive Council with regards to the establishment of businesses within residential areas; the Economic Residential Zoning policy.

The Sector began working on the policy in 2008 after receiving numerous complaints from residents as a result of the effects of businesses at close proximity of their homes.

The goal of the Economic Residential Policy is not to restrict business but rather to facilitate an appropriate mix of residential and commercial activities. Furthermore, the aim of the policy is to provide the necessary tools for the issuance of business licenses and control until the island has developed a comprehensive spatial plan according to the EROP regulation.

Considering the complexity of developing such a policy it was decided to focus on the effects the business establishment may have on the surrounding environment. This approach seems appropriate since all the complaints received are regarding the effects of the business on the residential community.

Furthermore, rather than focus on the type of businesses to disallow which may be infinite, the effects-based approach focuses on the consequent activity of the business establishment.
Additionally, the island already has several existing legislations (e.g. Operational Ordinance, Hindrance Ordinance, Public Order Ordinances, EROP) that provide the necessary guidelines for assessing the type of activity and its consequent activity on the community.

The Economic Residential Policy is not intended to be restrictive but rather to facilitate the establishment of non-residential activities in residential areas in circumstances where:

a. The activity is compatible in terms of its potential effects on the residential community.

b. To minimize noise, smell and sight pollution as this may adversely affect the amenity enjoyed by residential communities.

c. Maintain an appropriate level of residential amenity.

AMSTERDAM, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- Nine people have been confirmed dead and more than 50 others wounded after a Turkish airplane with 135 aboard crashed near Amsterdam on Wednesday, local officials announced.
A crew member was among the dead and 25 were injured seriously, said a local official, Haarlemmermeer Acting Mayor Michel Bezuijena, at a press conference at the Schiphol airport near Amsterdam. Six were very seriously injured and 24 suffered minor injuries.
The cause of the accident remains unclear, said the local police.
The aircraft split into three parts after it made a soft-landing on the plowed fields near Amsterdam's Schiphol airport.
Mirjam Snoerwang, spokeswoman for the Schiphol airport, told Xinhua that the plane crashed three to four miles away from a north-south runway where the plane should have landed, adding there were 128 passengers and seven crew members on board.
Snoerwang said earlier that the list of the dead and injured may be unveiled at the second press conference, but it ended without any list.
Police authorities only said that most of the passengers were of Turkish and Dutch nationalities.
No fire or explosion occurred due to low fuel in the tanks of the plane, reports quoted experts as saying. The plane, Flight TK1951, left Istanbul's Ataturk Airport at 8:22 a.m. local time.
More than 60 ambulances rushed to the scene and took the injured to 11 nearby hospitals.
Relatives of the dead were arranged in a reception center at the airport, the officials said.
All flights in and out of the Schiphol airport, which is Europe's fifth-largest by passenger volume, were temporarily suspended after the crash. Operations have already resumed by press time.
"It was very lucky. It's unbelievable. If it had moved another 250 meters away, it would have hit the trees, the risk will have been much bigger," a local official said.
Reports quoted officials in Turkey's transport ministry as saying that around 56 foreigners and 78 Turkish nationals were on board the aircraft.
Flight TK1951, a seven-year-old Boeing 737, was due to land at its destination at 10:30 local time.
The Boeing 737-800 is a short to medium range, single aisle, narrow body jet airliner. The 737 has nine variants, from the early 737-100 to the most recent and largest, the 737-900. Series 737-600 through 737-900 are still being produced.
First envisioned in 1964, the 737 series entered service in 1968. Forty years later it has become the most ordered and produced commercial passenger jet in the world.
Nearly 48 million passengers passed through the Schiphol airport in 2007, according to the latest figures from an industry organization, the Airports Council International.
Schiphol saw an air crash in 1992 when an El Al cargo aircraft hit a high building in the Amsterdam suburb of Bijlmermeer, killing 43 people.

MAHO- On Friday, January 30 GEBE reached a new milestone with the signing of an electricity supply agreement with the Maho Group of Companies. The contract was signed by ir. William Brooks GEBE Managing Director, and Saro Spadaro President & Chief Executive Office (CEO) of the Maho Group of Companies.
"This has been literally years in the works. It is a historic event not only for GEBE but for Maho as well. We built our own power station to produce our own electricity in a time when the services that GEBE would offer were not as reliable or as efficient as they have become," Saro Spadaro explained.
"Our core business is not in the power business; it is the hotel and tourism business. We looked for an opportunity to divest from the power generating business and refocus on our core business. However, this opportunity did not arise until Mr. Brooks and his team at GEBE came along and understood our requirements as potential clients and made it possible for us to sign this historic agreement," CEO of the Maho Group of Companies Saro Spadaro added.
Maho started self generation in 1993 because GEBE did not have the necessary equipment needed to guarantee a steady supply of the group's electrical power generation demands. The company went into a partnership with Ormrod Power Ltd. to secure its energy needs and has been operating its own power plant ever since.
Over the years GEBE has made significant investments in its power plant generation capacity and island-wide distribution grid. GEBE now has some of the best electrical power production equipment in the Caribbean and is able to produce electricity reliably and at a relatively low cost. "GEBE has been operating on heavy fuel oil, which is significantly cheaper than diesel. Our investment in new Wartsila engines also allows GEBE to run more efficiently. The signing of this agreement also signifies the confidence that the Maho Group of Companies has in GEBE with respect to its power generation capabilities, infrastructure and human resources," ir. William Brooks, GEBE's Managing Director pointed out.
Maho was faced with rising operational costs over the years as their equipment started to age and would need significant investments to upgrade its production facility to produce electricity in a cost effective manner.
Managing Director of NV GEBE was especially proud at the signing because he has been working on this agreement for approximately two years. "This is a major accomplishment for GEBE," William Brooks stated, "attesting to our increased reliability and cost effectiveness that has been invested into the infrastructure of the company as well as its human resources," Brooks added.
After the formal signing ceremony GEBE has two weeks to complete the physical connection to the Maho Group of Companies electrical infrastructure. Once the electricity supply has been established the Maho power plant will fall silent.

Philipsburg- Over the weekend, Commissioners Maria Buncamper-Molanus and Sarah Wescot-Williams took part in a series of healthy activities that were organized by Sector Health Care Affairs in commemoration of World Healthy Month.

There was the walk and aerobic activities in Philipsburg on the Board Walk.

Organized by Sector Health Care Affairs, listed in their Calendar of Events, the early morning exercise program is meant to encourage the community to exercise and to eat healthier.

Commissioner Buncamper-Molanus thanked the participants for coming out to the early morning program, and said that because of their partaking in the exercise activities, "I feel energized. It really feels good. If you can get up, exercising is really a way to boost your morning and feel healthy."

For the past years Government have been trying to bring an awareness of health to the community, for prevention is better than cure. We plan to keep this awareness up and to continue the exercise, nutrition, and weight programs. I encourage you to join us in getting healthier.

The theme this year is "Finding the balance between healthy eating and living."

Sector Health Care Affairs Director, Jorien Wuite, gave an account of the health situation on St. Maarten. "Nowadays obesity is an issue, not only on St. Maarten but world wide. If we, as a population, are to be healthy, we have to exercise," Wuite said. We have to eat in a healthy manner and we have to exercise: It has to be balance. Though we have to take the subject serious, exercise is fun. Involve your family and friends."

Currently a high percentage of persons on St. Maarten are overweight. We lead inactive lives, and we need to eat more fruits and vegetables. Once we start and you experience it, you will notice the difference. So I encourage you to be healthier.

MARIGOT: --- Elected officials at the Collectivity of St. Martin is now using scare tactics to collect the outstanding road tax for the year 2008 says President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs at a public meeting last night at the Chamber of Commerce building in Concordia.

Gumbs said elected officials has so far failed to properly execute the laws when implementing the road tax last year which is still illegal according to the French laws. He said so far no one within the legal framework is able to fine anyone for not paying the annual dues which was implemented by the COM. Gumbs further explained that persons who received the letters sent out recently should not buckle or have fear since the letter in itself has no bearing and it is an illegal document. The COM sent out close to 2,800 letters using a photocopied letter head of the State. The letter which came from the Treasury has no official stamp neither a signature. Already officials at the Treasury said the letter did not come from their office and it is not a legal document.

The Association MOCSAM has put together a letter which they distributed last night to those persons who received the threatening letter. This document they said must be filled out along with copies of the letters that came from the Treasury. The MOCSAM will have someone for three days next week which is Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Chamber of Commerce Building where they would be providing assistance to those persons who wish to contest the payment of the 2008 road tax in the administrative courts of St. Martin. The MOCSAM would also be collecting the letters and the necessary copies which will be mailed out to the Administrative courts by February 15.

The MOCSAM also plans to file an official court case against the COM and its elected officials who are harassing the citizens of this island with their illegal taxation.
Gumbs said that people of St. Martin have to get to the point and put a stop to the illegalities that is being conducted by its elected officials. He said the Territorial Council amended the road tax legislation where they increased the fees by over 45% something which he said cannot be tolerated.
Gumbs further explained that his movement is not against taxation but they are totally against the way the COM has pushed the new sets of taxes down the throats of the people. He said he does not believe the COM would have all that is necessary amendment or laws in place for these taxes before 2010 and no one would be forced to pay for 2008 and 2009.

In an effort to further confuse the population of St. Martin fourth vice president Louie Jeffry held a press conference yesterday afternoon at the COM encouraging the population to pay their dues.

Philipsburg:---On Friday February 6th the police department on Statia recieved a call informing them, that a house located on the Tijgerweg was on fire. The fire department and police patrols were directed to scene to investigate the matter.
On the scene the patrol noticed that the home owned by the man with initials M.C. was totally engulfed in flames and that this fire had the possibility of spreading to other nearby buildings.
The traffic in that area was rerouted in order for the fire department to carry-out their work effectively. However the fire was so intense that it spread to the roof a nearby unoccupied building.
It took the firefighters approximately two hours to put out the blaze. However even though endless effort by the fire department the house in question was completely destroyed by the fire.
The unoccupied building that had also caught fire suffered minor damage. No one was injured. The acting division head of Statia, Inspector Q. ROGERS, was also on the scene. According to the Acting Head of the Fire Department. Mr. TEARR the cause of the maybe because of faulty electrical installation.

Philipsburg: ---The deadline for calypsonians to submit their music sheets has been extended due to the record amount of Artists registered for the eliminations. A total of 22 calypsonians have signed up to vie for the 10 finalists spots and to go up against reigning monarch King Beau Beau in the finals.

Dr. Jones, King Barrow, King Stunky, De Phox, Dando, Genius, Young DOW, Mighty DOW, Father DOW, King Jacko, Mighty Pepper, Mighty Carlix, Fish De Mega boss, Kaiso Brat, King Timo, Young Carlix, King Repeater, His Majesty Baker Jr., Lady Baker, X-Rey, Mighty Chipman and Singing Olivia have all registered to participate.

The Calypso eliminations show is scheduled for Saturday March 28th at the Celebration Palace. 10 out of the 22 calypsonians will go on to the finals to challenge King Beau Beau for the crown and a winner's prize of U$ 10.000.00.

Considering the amount of calypsonians, the decision was made to extend the deadline for submission of music sheets to February 20th to accommodate the Artists; the organizers have announced.

POINTE-A-PITRE, Guadeloupe (AFP) - A union activist was killed overnight in Guadeloupe as the month-long strike on the French Caribbean island escalated into riots and shootings, local authorities said on Wednesday.

Jacques Bino, aged in his 50s, was shot dead while driving his car near a roadblock manned by armed youths who opened fire at police with buckshot in Pointe-a-Pitre, the island's main city, officials said.

It was not immediately clear who shot him, but he was the first victim of the escalating violence on the island crippled since January 20 by a general strike over the high cost of living.

"There were no police nearby," said local prosecutor Jean-Michel Pretre.

Bino's car was hit three times by 12-gauge Brenneke-style shotgun slugs. Two rounds hit the rear of the vehicle and the third was fired through the front passenger window and fatally wounded Bino in the chest.

"These were not stray rounds," Pretre said, adding that he was investigating the possibility that, given their age, Bino and his passenger had been mistaken for plain-clothes police officers by the youths.

He said, however, he had not ruled out other possibilities. "Here, everyone is armed," he explained, adding that Guadeloupe has four times the murder rate of any mainland French region with a similar population size.

Prime Minister Francois Fillon condemned the "extremely serious violence" in a statement and the interior minister called a crisis meeting to address the deteriorating security.

Six members of the security forces were slightly injured during clashes with armed youths, police said.

Bino, a tax official, was returning from a labour meeting, said Elie Domota, leader of the Collective Against Exploitation (LKP), the coalition of unions and leftist groups that launched the strike.

Gangs of youth's looted shops smashed storefront windows and threw up burning roadblocks overnight along the main streets of Pointe-a-Pitre and in at least two other towns. At least 13 people were detained.

"The government's message is first of all to appeal for calm, that is the most important thing," said spokesman Luc Chatel in Paris.

"Everyone is better off finding a place at the negotiating table than on the barricades," he told Europe 1 radio.

Ary Chalus, mayor of the town of Baie-Mahault where three police were hurt, described the scene as "chaos."

"We have 15-year-old children who are clashing with police. We may well have families in mourning," he warned.

The LKP has said it plans to step up protests this week after the government refused to bow to demands for a monthly 200-euro (260-dollar) pay increase for low-wage earners.

Domota appealed for calm but also accused French authorities of treating the island, one of its four overseas department, like a "colony."

"Guadeloupe is a colony because they would never have allowed the situation to fester for so long in a French department before taking action," Domota said on RTL radio.

The conflict has exposed race and class divisions on the island, where the local white elite wields power over the black majority.

The economy is largely in the hands of the "Bekes," the local name for whites who are mostly descendants of colonial landlords and sugar plantation slave owners of the 17th and 18th centuries.

A Socialist opposition leader, Malikh Boutih, said it was "shocking" to watch a police force "almost 100 percent white, confront a black population" and drew a parallel with the 2005 suburban riots in France.

"There are no concrete buildings, there are palm trees, but it's the same dead-end, the same 'no future' for young people, with joblessness and a feeling of isolation," Boutih said.

President Nicolas Sarkozy plans to meet elected officials from Guadeloupe and other overseas departments in Paris on Thursday to take stock.

As Guadeloupe's general strike against rising prices spreads across the Caribbean police clamp down and shoot a demonstrator.

Workers in Guadeloupe launched a general strike on 20 January in protest at the rising cost of living.

Most businesses, services and government departments across the island have been totally shut down since the strike began, and over a quarter of the population has taking to the streets.

Earlier this month workers in neighbouring Martinique joined the strike, and last night saw heavy rioting as impoverished residents escalated their struggle. Protesters burned shops and businesses and erected roadblocks with overturned cars and chopped down coconut trees.

Strikers warned that the government was preparing to murder demonstrators in order to quell the rebellion, after heavily armed French gendarmes were sent to the region.

Despite emissaries sent from Paris, and the dispute being isolated by French unions the strike has continued with shops out of stocks and petrol pumps running dry. At the height of the tourist season, two thirds of the 15,000 hotel beds in Guadeloupe are empty.

The Hindu reported that the strike is also being played out in the backdrop of tensions between the original inhabitants of the islands and the "Bekes", white colonisers who used slave labour to cultivate huge plantations until slavery was abolished in 1848. Former slave owners and a small white minority have kept a tight grip on the islands' economy ever since. "The situation in Guadeloupe is not far from social apartheid," warned Christiane Taubura, an MP from French Guyana. "The leaders of the strikers are not anti-white racists. They are exposing a reality...a caste holds economic power and abuses it," she told Le Journal du Dimanche.
The islands rely almost exclusively on imports sold in French-owned supermarkets at significantly higher prices than in France. A packet of rice or pasta, for instance, costs 90 per cent higher than in the "metropole". Petrol too is far more expensive.

The union delegate for Unsa police has said that the police are overwhelmed and facing 'guerilla tactics' and has warned people to stay in their homes.

400 gendarme's mobiles have already arrived and more are on the way.

The dead man is called Jacques Bino, and he was shot dead by a barricade, it's unclear who by at the moment.
The authorities are claiming that after the 'first' gunshot was heard police came under attack and three were injured and that they were driven back by gunshots, probably from a shotgun.
Police have reported three injuries from shotgun wounds in the capital as well.

 

NEVIS-A team of GEBE managers were among a group of regional electricity companies that attended the West Indies Power Geothermal Conference in Nevis on Friday, February 20, 2009.
GEBE Commercial Manager, Steve Duzanson, GEBE Saba Manager, Dexter Johnson, and GEBE Statia Manager, Fred Cuvalay, along with electricity company representatives from Anguilla, US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, St. Kitts, and Nevis were updated on the latest developments in geothermal electricity on Nevis. A presentation was held by Turbo Care, one of the world leaders in design, manufacturing and service of turbines used to generate electricity. The company is one of only three global players when it comes to supplying turbines for use in geothermal environments. Technical information was distributed [d1]on the types of geothermal engines that would be used to produce electricity from the steam from the steam wells.
The conference included a visit to one of the three test wells that was drilled by West Indies Power where a demonstration was held to familiarize the delegates with the steam and brine of the steam well[d2]. Construction of the geothermal power plant at Nevis will commence this year, according to West Indies CEO, Kerry McDonald. When completed, the Nevis plant could supply 50 megawatts (MW) of electricity; enough to fulfill all of Nevis' demand (approximately 10 MW[d3]) while the surplus could be sold to St. Kitts and other countries.
West Indies Power has also begun exploring geothermal energy in Dominica and will soon start exploration drills on Saba. Although the potential energy available on Saba is thought to be substantial, one of the challenges is that there is limited flat land available for the construction of a power plant. However, once these geothermal power sites are constructed and operational, power can be exported to neighboring islands via submarine electrical transmission cables. Ultimately, West Indies Power would like to create a Caribbean interconnection grid spanning from Grenada to the Dominican Republic that would be able to supply these islands with a constant supply of renewable electricity to meet their base load demands.
A second conference is planned later this year to discuss the technical trends and developments of submarine electrical transmission cables. The choice of cable will depend on the length of the cable, the amount of current running through it, heat loss factors, etc. The laying of these cables is very expensive and can run upwards of $2 million dollars per mile. Nevis is located 70 miles away from St. Maarten and Saba is 28 miles away.
GEBE is exploring the use of geothermal energy as a possible solution to diversify the islands' energy sources as part of the company's vision to provide quality, reliable and affordable electricity taking the environment into account. Part of the strategy to achieve this is to reduce the islands' dependence on oil especially after record high oil prices resulted in exorbitant electricity rates in 2008. It will be several years before the island could really be able to receive geothermal electricity and there will be a number of issues and challenges that will need to be resolved. GEBE believes that geothermal energy could be a feasible solution to provide a substantial portion of the Dutch Windward Islands' electricity in the future.

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Telecommunication Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, met on Monday morning with Telecommunications Consultant Peggy Ann Brandon and Sector Director of Economy & Tourism Miguel De Weever where she was briefed with respect to preparations for St. Maarten to take over telecommunication regulatory responsibilities.
Bureau of Telecommunications & Post (BTP) is one of the areas listed for transfer to the island government by July 1, the date that has been set on November 24, 2008 by the Island Government and the Central Government.
The Executive Council approved a Strategic Telecommunications Policy back in July 2008 which determines the growth and development direction of the island's telecommunications industry.
Major progress has been made where it concerns an area code for country St. Maarten as well as an internet extension.
The Island Government is working towards having a technical telecommunications expert in place by April to assist with the establishment of the Regulatory Agency.
It is also in the planning to have all draft telecommunications legislation made readily available to the public and telecommunications providers in May.
An Island Ordinance establishing the St. Maarten Telecommunications Regulatory Agency has been drafted to be forwarded to the relevant government departments for review and then on to the Executive and Island Councils.
"I am very pleased with the progress to date by our local team who has been working diligently to put all aspects in place to meet the date of transfer from the Central Government to the Island Territory. This process and other processes of taking over the responsibilities from the Central Government will be done in an transparent manner as is currently being done with the telecommunications sector," Commissioner of Telecommunication Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS).

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Education Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, commends the St. Maarten Academy's Academic Campus for launching its "Honour roll Bumper Sticker" program in an effort to reward parents of students who stand out academically.
Each term the school rewards students for making the honour roll, but this term, based on the initiative of the school's student care department, parents of honour roll students have now been recognized through the bumper stickers.
The stickers read, "My Child Made the Honour Roll at the St. Maarten Academy!"
"The honour roll system which now also rewards parents is an excellent idea. I cannot stress enough the role that parents have in their child's education and that they are the ones firstly responsible for their child (ren)'s upbringing.
"As parents we are also the child's first role model. At the same time, I acknowledge that parenting has not become any easier and many parents work very hard at their children's upbringing and to provide for them. In providing for them and their future, education is the key. Especially young parents and single mothers are encouraged to see their child or children as a blessing, notwithstanding the circumstances of life.
"Parents will without a doubt be very happy to share the recognition that their child received knowing that they were also responsible for the child's achievements. Display it proudly to show your child you care.
"I encourage students to work hard; to use the talents they have to excel. They and their parents will be recognized for a job well done and even more so, they are putting a firm foundation in place for the future," Commissioner of Education Sarah Wescot-Williams told the (GIS).

Philipsburg-Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams met with Dr. Roosevelt Williams, President of the Association of Caribbean Territory Institutions Inc. (ACTI) to discuss a proposal for membership in ACTI. Also in attendance at the meeting were Mrs. Forsythe labega, Sector Director for Education and University of St. Martin President, Mrs. Josianne Fleming-Artsen.

USM is already a member of ACTI.

There are several benefits that can be had from membership in the ACTI and these were discussed with Dr. Williams. Commissioner Wescot explained that in St. Maarten's quest for country status within the Dutch Kingdom, expertise in the region could and should surely be used to assist with the many preparations that need to be made for country status. Education is no exception in this regard.

The talks with Dr. Williams were of an exploratory nature and the proposal will be analyzed as to its potential benefits for Sint Maarten as a country.

Commissioner Wescot-Williams considered the meeting fruitful and informative, and promised to have the proposal analyzed and to determine, within short, what the course of action would be.

ACTI's objectives are to:
1. Facilitate cooperation and collaboration among the institutions in a wide range of academic, administrative and other areas;
2. Facilitate more effective utilization of scare resources in seeking to enhance access, mobility, and quality in tertiary education;
3. Facilitate articulation among institutions;
4. Facilitate and promote the communication between the tertiary institutions of the region;
5. Assisting in identifying and meeting the ongoing tertiary educational needs of the region and individual territories.

Sint Maarten is also being considered as the venue for the ACTI's board of directors' meeting in March of this year.

Philipsburg:---First Caribbean International Bank lends its support to the 2nd annual "Music In Me" organize by the Foundation For Hope & Music Development to be held on Sunday March 8th, 2009 at the Maho Convention Centre. This year's concert will showcase and expose children who have musical talents in various instruments such as piano, saxophone, guitar, flute and trumpet, and others who are gifted in dancing or singing. The Music event, "Don Froston in Concert", first started in November 2007 to assist Mr. Froston in establishing a music academy on the island.

According to Froston, He could remember making his own instrument with a bottle and paper, because he wanted so bad to play in the band. He mentioned that he wanted to join John Larmony music school, which was a popular music institution in the 1970's on the backstreet, but he was too young to at time. "Man I would blow makes home horn on the side of the street next to the big boys when the band uses to march on the Front Street".

Derek Downes, First Caribbean Country Head, explained how he learned to play the bass by numbers "had my music teacher made the music lessons while in school more interesting, I too would have been much more musically oriented" Downes said. "That's why we believe it's important to support Don with his efforts to develop the musical talents of children on St. Maarten."
Froston thanked the bank for their contribution to the foundation.

 

Philipsburg-The HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team has thousands of unusable condoms available to anyone who wishes to express their creativity for the 2009 40th anniversary of St. Maarten's carnival by designing costumes made of condoms.
During the [RED] Fashion Extravaganza held in November last year, four pieces were made of condoms, including the exceedingly popular bridal gown, made with over 7200 condoms by Miguel Alexander.
Suzette Moses-Burton, HIV/AIDS Programme Manager stated:"The condoms are unusable (for sexual purposes) and the alternative is to have them destroyed, but seeing the success we had with the pieces made during the [RED] Fashion Extravaganza we decided to explore the option of having the costume designers, who may be interested, design pieces and simultaneously help raise awareness to the issue of HIV/AIDS during carnival."
Those interested in getting hold of these condoms have to do so before February 13 by calling the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team at 542-2078/542-3003 or 542-3553 and ask for Suzette Moses-Burton or Lorraine Scot.

A general strike against rising living costs has been in progress on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe since January 20. Forty-seven trade unions, associations and political parties under the umbrella organization LKP-The Committee against Extreme Exploitation (lyiannaj kont pwofitasyion in local dialect)-have brought economic activity to a standstill.
A massive demonstration of 25,000 out of a total population of 410,000 took place on January 24 in the capital Pointe-à-Pitre. All shops, supermarkets, schools and public services were closed.
Although the fight against the increasing cost of living affects all of France's citizens and Guadeloupe is officially part of the French Republic, the traditional labour organizations in metropolitan France have isolated and ignored the struggle and media coverage has been rare and superficial.
The demands of the strikers led by the majority trade union, the UGTG (General Union of Guadeloupean Workers), have centred on the price of basic necessities. They call for an immediate reduction of 50 centimes on car fuel, a lowering of prices of transport and water, a rent freeze, an increase of €200 in the minimum wage, permanent contracts for all temporary workers and the right to education and training for youth and workers. One demand calls for priority to be given to Guadeloupeans in key employment posts and an end to racism in employment. The development of local production to satisfy the population's needs and an end to taxes on fertilizers and cattle feed also figure among the total of 146 demands advanced by the strikers.
Guadeloupe, an archipelago 600 kms from the Dominican Republic and 7,000 from mainland France, has been a colony since 1812. In spite of its integration into the French state in 1946, it has, like all other French possessions, remained economically backward.
The effects of the world recession have been felt earlier in this already deprived island community. Guadeloupe constitutes a recognized region of France whose local council is run by the French Socialist Party (PS) and is the 97th French Department. According to 2007 figures, unemployment is well over 23 percent and prices for all basic necessities are 30 to 60 percent more expensive than in France. Only rum, bananas and cigarettes are relatively cheaper.
Guadeloupe belongs to the group of the 13 poorest regions in Europe with a GDP of only 55.8 percent of the European average.
Yves Jégo, President Nicolas Sarkozy's secretary of state for overseas territories, was rushed to Guadeloupe the weekend of January 31-February 1 to calm things down and negotiate a way out before the social explosion links up with mainland France. On the neighbouring French island of Martinique, 12 trade unions launched a one-day general strike call for February 5 against the decrease in purchasing power, which has especially affected the 70,000 people on the island living below the poverty line.
Jego announced several measures in an attempt to placate strikers and break the cohesion of the Guadeloupean strike. "We have succeeded after three days of negotiations in obtaining a clear commitment from supermarket chains to reduce 100 items of basic necessity by 30 percent in 60 supermarkets until the end of the year," he said. A rent freeze was announced and the minimum social welfare payment (RSA) for those actively engaged in work will be implemented this year instead of next.
The negotiations are ongoing and the reaction by the LKP strike committee is to maintain the strike. However, Jego has succeeded in reopening the 115 service stations after promising the owners to limit any new installations affecting their profitability. Road blockades and demonstrations closed service stations last December and obtained a reduction of 31 centimes per litre on petrol.
While the strike has been solid and peacefully run (40,000 attended a January 25 carnival to support the strike), the French government has sent extra CRS riot police to intervene wherever and whenever it sees fit. Memories are still fresh in Guadeloupe of the 100 people shot to death by the CRS during a demonstration in 1967.
Yves Jego arrived on the island commenting, "Guadeloupe has lived through an exceptional two weeks and the usual avenues of resolving a conflict have not produced a solution," he said. "I am well aware," Jego added, that "we need to give a response to the LKP collective which will give them satisfaction." UGTG leader Elie Domata was quoted by Radio Télé-Guadeloupe as welcoming Jego's decision, which "gave the impression of having heard and understood that Guadeloupe is on the edge of an explosion and social chaos." The Socialist Party president of the regional council, Victorin Lurel, hoped Jego had come "armed with solutions."
In this tense situation, Domata issued an open letter to French trade unions and "left" political parties, calling for international solidarity. This call has fallen on deaf ears. While issuing vague messages of "solidarity" in press statements, none of these parties or trade union leaders has called for strikes, sympathetic actions or protests of any kind.
The French Communist Party (PCF) called for "transparent and global negotiations," stating that "it is urgent the government commits itself." The main CGT union, which is close to the PCF, remarked that "it is examining the way in which to get the powers that be to find urgent responses to the Guadeloupean workers' demands."
Alain Krivine of the LCR/NAP (Revolutionary Communist League/New Anti-Capitalist Party) wrote in Rouge: "This united general strike is an example for all those who are fighting here for an extended ‘everyone together' (tous ensemble) against the isolation and dispersing of resistance ... and the best way to help it, which helps us so much, is to multiply our efforts to ensure the success of the protest strike on the 29 [in France]." Such empty remarks are a cover for the silence of the trade leaders; no demands have been made for urgent action to come to the aid of Guadeloupean strikers. In the name of unity, Krivine has no public comment to make which might embarrass his party's relations with the trade union bureaucracy.
In the same edition of Rouge, an interview appears with Patrice Gonot, the leader of the Cercasol party, the LCR's new NPA party's sister organisation in Guadeloupe. He is also active in the CTU union (United Workers Centre). After citing the strikers' demands, Gonot states: "There have been united meetings in all the towns. All our resentments are put to one side, because it is the future of Guadeloupe which is at stake." The working class and its political independence is relegated to the future of "Guadeloupe," which includes the propertied classes.
Gonot makes clear that for Cercasol the demands are negotiable: "We are conscious that our platform of demands is enormous. There are the short term, long term and intermediate goals." Gonot makes no mention of the need for solidarity action in France and the treacherous role of the trade unions, but blithely concludes, "Everyone, including the bosses, admits that there is a problem in Guadeloupe. But the questions posed go beyond the Guadeloupean framework. We realize that the local powers are incapable of answering questions that the Guadeloupean people pose."
The Socialist Party's national bureau issued a press statement which completely distorts the strike's aims. It expresses no support for the strike, but arrogantly asserts the demands to be its own. It claims its document proposing to stimulate the French economy by helping business and banks, as well as proposals for insignificant minimum wage increases, have been adopted by the strikers. The PS holds the presidency of the devolved Guadeloupe regional council, which bears part of the responsibility for the current degradation of workers' living standards, inflicting as it does at every turn the politics of the Sarkozy government on the French population generally. The SP controls 22 of France's 24 regional councils.
The "left" establishment, whether in Guadeloupe or metropolitan France, is duping workers and handing the initiative to Sarkozy's right-wing government to foist the consequences of the economic crisis onto the backs of the working class.
In order to satisfy all of the Guadeloupean workers' legitimate demands, the unity of the working class must be forged on the basis of socialist internationalism. The current bourgeois regimes should be replaced with workers' governments, which would reorganize the economy under the democratic control of the working class for the satisfaction of social needs of the vast majority.

WSWS.ORG

Marigot: --- Teachers from the Lycee and the three colleges on St. Martin plans to continue with their protest action today Monday until solutions is found for their grievances so said President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs last night. While teachers from the main high schools will remain focused some of the teachers from the primary schools are expected to go back to work while other would be joining their colleagues in action.

Gumbs said members of the MOCSAM plans to continue holding meetings throughout the day with several unions and associations as they prepare to meet with the delegation from the Collectivity of St. Martin including the Sous Prefet at 5pm.
A meeting was scheduled on Friday when close to 700 people took to the streets of Marigot in protest of the high cost of living. The teachers have been out of school since last week Tuesday as they protest against the conditions in which they are forced to teach. One of the main concerns of the teachers is the high cost of living parents are faced with on St. Martin, reasons why they are not able to provide adequate nourishment for their children.
The teachers are also protesting against the dilapidated condition of the Lycee while the Colleges are lacking materials. President of the COM Frantz Gumbs had said on Friday that he is fully aware of the school's need and that they were busy working on the files. Gumbs also said that many of the work that is needed to be carried out at the school can only take place when the students are out of school.

One of the concerns of the MOCSAM is the road tax which they said was implemented illegally. The MOCSAM Association would be doing their best to make sure the COM suspend the collection of the road tax until proper procedures are being followed. Gumbs said right now the residents of St. Martin are being pressured to pay the additional taxes while they are going through an economical crisis.
He is calling on the local residents to come out and support them with their fight since they all would need to fight for their island's survival.

...

International Herald Tribune, Reuters, The Associated Press

POINTE-À-PITRE, Guadeloupe: As President Nicolas Sarkozy prepared Tuesday to meet with labor unions and employer representatives to try to head off mounting unrest over France's declining economy, a month-long general strike on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe escalated into widespread rioting, raising fears that political violence would spread to other French territories.
Protesters ransacked shops and torched vehicles in Guadeloupe overnight as a strike over the cost of living escalated, and one senior local official said the island was "on the verge of revolt."
Trees and smoking car wrecks were strewn across streets in Guadeloupe's largest town, Pointe-à-Pitre, and in other areas including Sainte-Rose in the north after a night of clashes between the police and protesters, although no injuries were reported.
Tear gas was fired during a standoff overnight between a group of 60 protesters and two squadrons of riot police, according to the French newspaper Le Monde, which reported that some protesters were armed with shotguns.
Interior Minister Michèle Alliot-Marie issued a statement appealing for "calm, responsibility and restraint." The French government, which last week deployed 100 riot police officers to Guadeloupe, has become worried about violence spreading to other French territories.
Today in Europe
In mainland France, 1 million to 2.5 million people took to the streets Jan. 29 in the largest general strike in three years. French unions are demanding that Sarkozy better protect jobs and consumers during the global economic crisis, and are already planning new strikes for March.
Sarkozy called a "social summit" earlier this month in a televised address during which he sought to reassure a nation nervous after the Jan. 29 strike, which hobbled transport systems, schools, hospitals and mail services.
French university professors have also been protesting higher education reforms for three weeks, and have called their own strike for Thursday.
In the back of everyone's minds are massive protests that shut France down for weeks in the winter of 1995 and sapped President Jacques Chirac's appetite for reform for years to come.
Despite putting in place a €26 billion, or $33 billion, economic stimulus package and pledging billions of euros more to aid the car industry, Sarkozy is coming under increasing criticism for seeming to do more to help businesses than average French workers. Reversing that view is the president's challenge at the meeting Wednesday, which will include the leaders of France's five labor unions and three employers' organizations.
The following day Sarkozy plans to meet with lawmakers and local leaders from Guadeloupe and Martinique at the Élysée Palace in an attempt to calm the situation, French news media reported. He has said he may address the Guadeloupe crisis when he gives another televised address the same day.
Victorin Lurel, the Socialist president of Guadeloupe's regional council, told France Info radio that the island was "on the verge of revolt," adding, "there is a tense standoff between the security forces and demonstrators."
The demonstrations, which have been coordinated by an alliance of about 50 unions and associations known as LKP or "Liyannaj Kont Pwofitasyon" - "Stand Up Against Exploitation" in local dialect - have been peaceful. But the tone has grown angrier recently as the government in Paris has refused to budge on a demand for a €200 monthly increase for low-paid workers.
The LKP leader, Elie Domota, warned in a television interview Saturday that "if anyone injures a member of the LKP or a striker on Guadeloupe, there will be deaths."
Guadeloupe, a French overseas department, has been brought to a standstill for nearly a month by strikes and demonstrations over high prices for food and other necessities. The situation has degenerated over the past two days as protesters have set up roadblocks in different parts of the island and police have made dozens of arrests.
Living costs are high on the French islands, which depend heavily on imports and use the euro. Prices for many staples are far higher than in mainland France, while salaries are generally lower and unemployment is high.
The strike also is exposing racial and class tensions on islands where a largely white elite, many the descendants of colonial settlers, makes up only 1 percent of the population but controls most businesses.
Fears are rising in the government that similar unrest would spread to other French territories, the newspapers Le Monde and La Tribune reported. The popular far-left leader Olivier Besancenot, who has been a key figure behind recent protests in France, was planning to travel to Guadeloupe on Friday, according to the newspaper Le Figaro.
France's National Travel Agencies organization has reported that 10,000 tourists have canceled planned vacations in Martinique and Guadeloupe. Several hotels in Guadeloupe reported Monday that they could not accept guests because protesters were congregated outside and staff did not show up to work.

Philipsburg- Commissioner of Tourism Affairs Roy Marlin extends congratulations to the management and staff of Royal Islander Club La Plage and La Terrasse on its 24th Gold Crown.

The award recognizes the highest level of excellence with respect to the products and services that a resort offers its guests.

"Providing good service to our visitors is what keeps them coming back to the destination. Service is key in this business and due to the hard dedicated work of management and staff; your work has been recognized for a period of 24-years.

"Continue to maintain the high level and quality of service as you are a prime example to your island colleagues who also work in the hospitality sector," Commissioner of Tourism Roy Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS).

The RCI Resort Recognition programme is based on that membership organizations adhere to the highest standards of accommodation and hospitality.
Commissioner Marlin is also pleased to hear that the Royal Islander La Plage reopened on February 14 after a four-month closure due to damage caused by Hurricane Omar.

Philipsburg- Economic Controllers have been assigned to control all businesses for business & director's licenses plus operational licenses for businesses that retail and wholesale alcoholic beverages, bar and restaurant, hotel and guesthouses and ice cream parlors.

Businesses that are open after 6:30 p.m. must have a license from the Lt. Governor allowing them to open after the afore-mentioned hour.

These business owners are required to have the licenses displayed in the establishment and must therefore have the licenses available upon request by the controllers.

Businesses that are operating are required to have the necessary licenses issued by the Island Government.

Persons born in the Netherlands Antilles of Dutch nationality who are operating a business as a sole proprietor do not require a business license, however they must present the Chamber of Commerce registration.

However, if the business is one of the above-mentioned businesses, then the Antillean business owner must have in their possession an operational license.

This exercise is done twice a year or as the need arises.

Businesses found without the required license will be issued a warning and will be informed to either present the documents at the Department or submit the application for the required licenses at the Department of Permits, Licenses, Public Vending and Economic Control (VOSEC). The business must remain close during the time their request is being processed.

This exercise commenced on December 2nd 2008 in Philipsburg and will be continued through out the island.

Philipsburg:---For a fourth year, First Caribbean International Bank has proved its commitment to the youth of St. Maarten by contributing to the efforts of 4-Milton Peters College students from VWO-5 who will be competing in the annual Mathematics A-limpid, Nederland's Wakened Olympiad' in Gardener in the Netherlands in March.

The students are Sit-in Fong, Mae-Ann Snider's, Tin van Even and Jonathan Etna. These students will be going up against some of the best high school Mathematics students from the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany and Aruba.

The Dutch Mathematics Olympiad has been organized since 1962 and is the oldest Dutch school Olympiad. Since 1969, The Netherlands also participates in the International Mathematics Olympiad. In 1979 the NWO School Prize was established.

First Caribbean Country Head, Mr. Derek Downs, wishes all the competing students best of luck in the upcoming Mathematics A-Limpid. "St. Maarten has some very competent and bright students and we expect them to give their very best while in the Netherlands. A delegation consisting of five people, including the Mathematics teacher, Mr. Iwan Blankendal will be travelling to the Netherlands in the Month of March.

Marigot;---- For a week now, the services of the gendarmerie of SAINT-MARTIN have been informed of an escalation of aggravated thefts.
On February 19, 2009 a person who was driving a car at the level of Rambaud on the RN7 was forced to stop as a car was across the road and, under the threat of weapons, his was stolen.
An aggression took place at Marina Royal whereby a person was shot. On Friday, February 20, at Pic Paradise, tourists were robbed of their moneys under the threat of a weapon by individuals who left the scene driving away with the vehicle of their victims. On Sunday, February 22, in the evening, there was an armed robbery in a place of business at Cul-de-Sac during which several shots went off injuring two persons. On February 25, in the middle of the night, tourists driving in Marigot were blocked by a vehicle which armed individuals exited in order to take the victims' vehicle. Finally, still on February 25, close to the Oyster Pond Border, a theft with violence was committed against a person whose vehicle collided with another before coming to a stop, violence was exercised by the aggressors.
The gendarmerie has deployed all its resources to try to curb these occurrences and undertake the necessary investigations. Besides the patrols carrying out general supervision, the investigating officers of the research squad and of the community squad, backed by technicians in criminal identification, have been using every possible means to identify the culprits of these very serious offences. For this reason, the group VAMA (for armed robberies), instituted several months ago, identified the presumed perpetrator of a theft with violence committed against two tourists in Grand Case on February 21 early in the afternoon; after being placed into custody for questioning, he was sent to Guadeloupe on February 25 to answer his acts.
Some rules of caution are recommended for victims confronted with such situations: as much as possible one needs to stay calm and keep one's cool without physically resisting the aggressors; one must never try to play the "hero": obeying the aggressors orders is the best way not to irritate these individuals whose behaviour is unforeseeable.
Despite the difficulty and presence of mind required in such circumstances, one must try to detect certain elements about the perpetrators and their vehicle, and take note of them without being influenced by them.
Seeking elements that will be useful to the investigation also requires the preservation of traces and signs. On waiting for the investigating officers, one must preserve traces and signs by not adding any more on the premises of the offence (cups, cigarettes, footprints, etc.); do not touch objects that the culprits have touched or left behind.
In all cases, 17 (emergency number of the gendarmerie) must be dialled as soon as possible, preferably by witnesses or other persons.

Philipsburg:---On Thursday morning, at about 11:00 a.m., police were called to the Beacon Hill area for a robbery.
A man identified as P.S., (62) from Cuba, told police that he opened the door of his apartment after hearing knocks of the door and voices indicating that they were police/immigration officers.
The man said when he slightly opened the door, the three unknown men who was wearing no masks on, pushed him and the door aside and walked in.
The bandits tied up the victim with black tape and under threat of a fire arm and a knife demanded money and valuables. They searched the apartment and left it upside down. The bandits made away with a laptop. The detectives are investigating this early morning robbery.

Philipsburg:--- Today Monday February 2nd ,"World Wetlands day", marks 38 years since the adoption of the Ramsar Convention/Convention on Wetlands in the Iranian City of Ramsar in 1971. "The Convention's mission is the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local, regional and national actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world". (Ramsar COP8, 2002). Presently there are over 150 signatories to the convention with over 1800 wetland sites designated for inclusion in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Significance.

World Wetlands Day has been commemorated annually since 1997. Hundreds of Non-Governmental Organizations and other community based groups around the world make use of this second day of February to take action aimed at raising government and public awareness of the importance of protecting wetlands.
Sint Maarten is party to the Ramsar Convention as part of the Netherlands Antilles and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Netherlands Antilles has so far designated five so called "Ramsar sites" all on the island of Bonaire (Salina Slagbaai, Goto, Pekelmeer, Lac and Klein Bonaire). The Convention however allows and encourages parties to add more wetlands to already designated Ramsar sites.

Ecological and environmental significance of wetlands

Sint Maarten's wetlands (ponds and lagoons) all serve important ecological and environmental purposes. The island's wetlands support large mangroves communities which serve as nurseries for shrimp, lobster, conch and many species of juvenile reef and deep sea fish. Mangroves are also important feeding, breeding and nesting areas for many species of migratory and resident birds. At least 65 species of migratory birds have been recorded at Sint Maarten's wetlands.

Ponds and lagoons furthermore serve as a natural cache for much of the run-off water from surrounding hills. Removing or even partially filling ponds or lagoons, such as has been done on St. Maarten, will have drastic consequences for the surrounding districts as excess run-off water will lead to the flooding of the areas adjacent to partially or completely filled ponds or lagoons. Additional consequences will most likely include discoloration and washing away of the sand on nearby beaches and an influx of sedimentation into the sea that can be extremely harmful for coral reefs nearby. The flooding of the Zagersgut, Cul de Sac, Sucker Garden and Philipsburg areas during heavy rains are a clear example of the aforementioned effects of filling in ponds and natural gutters.

Cultural Heritage/ Historical significance.

Besides their ecological and environmental functions Sint Maarten's wetlands also have cultural and historical significance. The Great Salt Pond, for instance, played a prominent role in Sint Maarten's history due to its immense size and its central location, particularly in the wide scale Salt mining industry which started with the Dutch around 1631. Salt was collected from the Great Salt Pond and subsequently exported or locally used to conserve food. The last commercially significant salt reaping occurred in the 1940's. Many Sint Maarteners are descendants of people who worked in the Great Salt Pond during and after slavery, a fact which makes the Great Salt Pond an important aspect of the island's heritage.

The Welgelegen or Little Bay Pond and the Red Pond in Gibbs Bay, played an essential role in Sint Maarten's History as well, particularly in the survival of our ancestors, as these ponds were used for farming shrimp, fish, crabs and ducks both during and after slavery.

Ponds recommended for protection.

Sint Maarten's ponds have been recommended for protection in reports such as The Ponds of Sint-Maarten, (Ecovision, 1996) and many other studies which concluded that the ponds are of ecological and environmental importance. Some of the island's remaining ponds, especially Mullet Pond, may therefore have a good chance of meeting the criteria of being wetlands of (inter)national significance and could potentially be designated as Ramsar sites.

The Destruction of Sint Maarten's Wetlands.

Despite Sint Maarten's Conservation and Heritage Foundation's numerous appeals against the destruction of the island's natural ecosystems, the systematic filling in and destruction of ponds and the Simpson Bay Lagoon unfortunately seems to have become the norm rather than an exception.

In 1950 Dutch Sint Maarten boasted at least 19 ponds (all documented in maps available at the Cadastre's office); by 1995 this had been reduced to 10 ponds and today 14 years later less than 5 remain intact. A list of ponds that have been destroyed in the past decade alone includes the Flamingo Pond (completely destroyed in 1998), two of the small ponds at Cupecoy (completely destroyed in February 2005), the pond at Guana Bay (completely destroyed in March 2005) and Dawn Beach pond (completely destroyed in May 2005).

Environmental Protection In the Caribbean reiterates its calls for government to develop, implement and enforce Wetland Protection legislation and zoning plans to protect Sint Maarten's few remaining wetlands, coastal zones and other ecologically valuable areas.

Philipsburg: --- Police had to respond to a stabbing incident on Saturday at Frances Bar, located on the A.Th. Illidge Road. On the scene the investigating officers learnt from another police officer who had arrived on there earlier, that the victim who was stabbed had already been transported to the St Maarten Medical Center by the Ambulance Department.
The officer stated that the victim was behaving quite aggressive and violent towards the personnel of the ambulance department. According to witnesses the victim with initials J.D.R. who at the time seemed to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol had a problem with another unknown man.
The victim at one point was seen running behind this man with a knife. However shortly bar and everything seemed to be back to normal.
A while after there was a report that the victim had been stabbed in the vicinity of the "Rolling System". No one on the scene could give the investigating officers any information to what had happened and how J.D.R was stabbed. A bloody knife and T-shirt were found on the scene and confiscated.

At the Sint Maarten Medical Center the victim continued with his aggressive behavior and did not want is attended to by the on duty doctor.
He wanted to leave the hospital and refused to sign the release form stating that he would leave at his own risk. The police officers at the hospital, after a lengthy with victim convinced the him to allow the doctor to treat him. The victim was not in condition to give any statement at the time because of the seriousness of his wounds. On Sunday morning the detectives spoke to the victim who gave an statement to what happened however, witnesses have to question to determine exactly what happened. This case is still under investigation.

Philipsburg- Cyril Ebenezer Richardson, born on April 15, 1943, passed away February 3, 2009 was a member of the Island Council of St. Maarten from 1987-1991, and during that time he was Commissioner of Public Works, Finance & Sports as well. He served in the Executive Council along with Patricia Flanders, Valerie Giterson-Pantophlet and Dennis Pantophlet from 1989 - 1991.
In memory of Mr. Cyril Ebenezer Richardson, there will be a Condolence Register in the lobby area of the Government Administration Building in Philipsburg. The public is invited to sign the Condolence Register for the late Ebenezer Richardson. The register will be open from Thursday, February 5 to Monday, February 9.
On Monday, February 9th at 9 a.m., there will be an Extra-ordinary Island Council meeting in memory of Mr. E. Richardson
On behalf of the entire Civil Service and the Island Government of St. Maarten, the Executive Council expresses sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late Cyril Ebenezer Richardson.

Philipsburg: ---Commissioner for the past three years you have assigned Ms.Olga Mussington to be the coordinator of the Emerging Global Leaders Program.
A program that is sponsored by Scotia bank and York University one of the leading University in Toronto Canada. This program is designed to provide an opportunity for students from across the Caribbean to integrate their academic studies with their knowledge skills and attitudes and put them into practice with their peers. Students from various schools here in St. Maarten have benefited from this program and as you know, 14 students attended this program, last year in St. Kitts.
We are here today Commissioner to say that your selection of Olga to be the coordinator was prefect and to also recognize Olga for an excellent job that she has performed in the last three years and hopefully will continue to do so in the future. She is well organized, committed, focused, shows initiative and is a very caring individual. It was truly a pleasure working with Olga. On behalf of my staff and Scotia bank I hereby present Olga with this plaque and gift certificate, as a token of our appreciation.

Cay Hill:---While there is an urgent need for more gynecologist at the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) Dr. Randal Friday is yet to sign the contract given to him by Director of the medical institution Dr. George Scot. Scot who was not pleased when several reporters asked him if the contract was already signed said when that is done he would be the first to notify the media, he said he is now waiting of Dr. Randal Friday to decide whether or not he would agree to work at the institution under the terms set down.
The St. Maarten Medical Center is working with a skelton staff in the gynecology section said he is busy working on a contract with the French side hospital since one of his doctors resigned while another one went on vacation without notifying the medical institution.
Efforts made to contact Dr. Friday for a comment on the developments could not be reached by phone.

Philipsburg:--- While this is a very sensitive case that involves minors Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein confirmed two students of the St. Maarten Vocational School is in custody suspected for rape. He said the victim in this case is a 15-year old and a female.
Stein said due to the nature of the case he is not able to release anymore information on the case.
The two students were arrested on Thursday last week at their school. Sources said the incident did not take place on the grounds of the school.

Philipsburg: --- The court of first instance will be busy today as the commissioner Louis Laveist will be appearing before the judge to answer charges of fraud, forgery and bribery. Laveist case will be called before the judge at 2 pm confirmed Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein. Stein said it is expected that the case will be postponed since the lawyer for the commissioner is expected to call several witnesses. During the morning hours Prosecutor Martin Hemlaar will be in the courtroom as he seeks to confiscate the riches of convicted police commissioner Marcel Loor.

Philipsburg: --- The citizen movement MOCSAM will be holding a march tomorrow Friday in protest of the high cost of living and the road tax which the Collectivity is demanding from its citizens. President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs said it was decided by the residents and teachers who participated in the public meeting last night (Wednesday night) that a march is held.
Marchers would be gathering infront of the Lycee Polyvalent in the Spring where the march would begin to the Sous Prefecture of St. Martin.

Once there the delegation would deposit a list with their grievances. Those grievances include the high cost of living and the illegal road tax that the COM is demanding from its citizens through scare tactics Gumbs said. "We want clear answers from the Sous Prefet, he would have to tell us why he is endorsing this illegal taxation and we would be demanding that this be stopped or put on hold until the State legalizes the taxation." After that the marchers would move to the Collectivity where they would deposit another list before moving over to the Nina Duverly School. He said a podium would be installed in front of that school where a number of persons would be speaking. The idea Gumbs said is to make sure the people of St. Martin fully understands what is taking place in their country. He further explained that this would not be a one day protest. The protestors would decide on what other move to take when they hear from their State and local officials.

Gumbs is calling on all residents of St. Martin to come out and support the march. He said it is time for the population to take action since life on St. Martin is getting extremely hard. The EDF, Service des EAU and the Collectivity staff will be supporting the march set for Friday. While rumors have it that water and light will be cutting off when the action begins Gumbs said that the MOCSAM asked these companies to support the action but they did not request from the companies to cut off people light and water. He said since the beginning of the week there are all sorts of rumors but he could not confirm any of it.
According to information circulating this is action is held in collaboration with Guadeloupe and Martinique. Residents of the Overseas territories are calling on the State to do something about the high cost of living and the recession in France. So far Yves Jego walked out of a meeting that was being held in neighboring Guadeloupe.

 

PHILIPSBURG-GEBE managing director, ir. William Brooks, presented the GEBE donation check to University of St. Martin board member, Danny Ramchandani, on February 12, 2009, making GEBE one of the University's Partners in the construction and upgrade of the university campus.
"The contribution comes at the perfect time," Ramchandani explained, " The construction of the second floor and upgrading of the classrooms is being finalized and the last payment is being sent to the contractor. In the next month, we will have the opening, so our partners can see what has been done."
GEBE community policy focuses specially on the youth, schools, sports and seniors. GEBE also adopted the Oranje School many years ago and continues to assist the school. "The donation to the university is very much in line with the GEBE community policy," Brooks explained, "Education and training are very important aspects of preparing for the future. During the past two years, the focus in GEBE has been on training, training, and training. We will continue to invest in our community and our schools."
"I am very happy that GEBE has become our partner in education. We look forward to full support in the future," Ramchandani stated as he accepted the check on behalf of the university. "The future of the university is very bright and now with GEBE on board, being an electricity company, it will be even brighter."

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Telecommunication and Aviation Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, met with Antillean Minister of Telecommunications Maurice Adriaens and his delegation on Friday morning in her office at the Government Administration Building.

Commissioner Wescot-Williams provided the Minister with an update on the current preparations related to receiving the authority from the Central Government for a St. Maarten Bureau of Telecommunications & Post, Shipping and Aviation Affairs, Meteorological Services, and Air Traffic Control.

Wescot pointed out that coordination of activities in preparation to receiving the tasks and responsibilities were critical to the process embarked upon, and that it must be done in an open and transparent manner in tandem with the Central Government.

Minister Andriaens was very pleased to get an update about the process and he stated that his ministry was readily available to assists wherever possible in making the process move forward without any major challenges along the way.
"I was glad for the opportunity to give the Minister and his delegation an update on our overall preparations for Country St. Maarten and in particular in the areas of telecommunications and transportation. In my introduction I informed the Minister that already six ministries have been approved by the Executive Council with only the Ministry of Justice which is still being worked on.

"The Minister was informed about the role of KPMG where it concerns organizational structure, legislation, resources and personnel. KPMG is currently assisting with studying the possibilities where the Postal Services are concerned. With respect to United Telecommunications Services (UTS), this will be part of the division of assets and liabilities of the Netherlands Antilles.

"Regarding Shipping and Maritime Affairs, the department in Curacao has organized training for our civil servants here with respect to the overall structure and administrative set-up, and this is taking place this week.

"The legal structure for our own Bureau of Telecommunications & Post (BTP) has been drafted and submitted to the Minister. BTP is one of the areas listed for transfer to the island government by July 1, the date that has been set on November 24, 2008 by the Island Government and the Central Government.

"The Island Government will continue to work with all parties concerned in an open and transparent manner in building the government and organizational structures for Country St. Maarten.

"It is very important that we have these types of engagements between both levels of government at the level of minister, as it would facilitate a much smoother process where it concerns the transfer of tasks and responsibilities," Commissioner of Telecommunication and Aviation Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Friday.

St. Louis: --- Residents of French St. Martin mainly the village of St. Louis were thrown in mourning when they heard fireman Luther Bruno Richards passed away during his sleep during the early hours of Saturday morning. Luther Bruno Richards a 34 year old young man suffers from epilepsy said his mother Laurel Richards. Richards said her son have been suffering from epilepsy for some years but other than that he was a strong young man who was involved in several types of sports. Richards said her son began suffering from epilepsy when he made 29 years of age. She considered the illness to be very severe which led to his death. Richards said her son worked for the fire department for the past 12 years, prior to that he worked on the Mullet Bay Gulf course and after that the funeral home on the French side of the island.

Laurel said normally someone would always sleep with her son Luther knowing his medical condition but on the night he passed away no one stayed with him. Luther Bruno Richards leaves to mourn his mother, two daughters, brothers, sister's aunts, uncles and other relatives. Also mourning the lost of Richards are the team of the fire department on the French side. Eric Daniel one of the chiefs in charge yesterday said that the fire department has lost a great colleague who was always willing to work.

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Education Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, would like to congratulate the Catholic School Board, management, staff, students and parents of the St. Dominic Primary School on their 20th anniversary.
Festivities to commemorate the anniversary are scheduled for this week.
The St. Dominic Primary School in South Reward opened its doors unofficially in August 1988 followed by an official opening in January 1989.
"It is important that we recognize that the St. Dominic Primary School's basic purpose has always been centered on the needs of children, in building citizens for the future.
"As we move towards country status, this school and others on the island will continue to play an essential role in preparing students who not only acquire a body of useful knowledge, but who also have been taught to be honest, who are stimulated by risk and danger, who get satisfaction from achievement, who are patriotic, who have curiosity and humor and imagination.
"A good education is one of the finest gifts afforded by any democracy to its children. I am confident that this school will continue to be flexible and discerning in its curriculum design to take full advantage of the increasing knowledge of ourselves, the world and the universe.
"I extend on behalf of government our sincere congratulations for the very successful record of achievement during the past 20-years and may the school continue to serve the St. Maarten community in meeting the educational needs of our island nation," Commissioner of Education Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS).

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Education Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, along with officials from the Capital City of Florida, Tallahassee, will in an official ceremony, on Wednesday afternoon exchange proclamations between the City of Tallahassee-St. Maarten, marking a 10-year relationship between the city and the island.

The ceremony is scheduled to take place at City Hall at 4.30pm, St. Maarten time.

The proclamation ceremony can be viewed live on the internet at the following website address: www.talgov.com/communications/wcotlive.cfm

The City of Tallahassee Department of Communications will be streaming live the ceremony.

Commissioner Wescot is being accompanied by Head of Study Financing Calvin Mardenborough on her working visit to Tallahassee which started on February 17.

The Leader of Government is expected back on the island February 22.

PARIS - (AP) An agreement between Guadeloupe's employers and its striking workers is "perhaps not that near," the head of France's employers' federation said on Sunday, more than a month into protests that have paralyzed the Caribbean island.
Medef head Laurence Parisot warned that talks are "still very complex." She told Europe-1 radio in an interview Sunday: "The latest news that I received last night demonstrated that we were perhaps not that near a deal."
Parisot also complained that delegates representing the island's employers were "not sufficiently listened to" by France's minister for overseas departments, Yves Jego. Government officials should help "everyone advance together" and "not take sides to make one side advance against the other," she said.
The strike, by workers demanding a higher wages for Guadeloupe's low earners, began in late January. Violence flared last week and a striking labor union member was shot to death, apparently by rioting youths.
But tensions largely died down following a televised address Thursday by French President Nicolas Sarkozy, who announced a euro580 million ($730 million) financial package to help development in France's overseas regions.
French officials have suggested an accord that would end the standoff is on the horizon, but negotiations have proven slow. Strikes have also spread to neighboring Martinique.

Airport:--- The PJIAE on Monday afternoon initiated the process of reviewing the bids for the rerouting of the Airport Road in front of the terminal building. Two companies - Windward Roads and MNO Vervat- had been invited to bid on the project that is meant to create better traffic flow and improve safety for travelers around the airport. The tendering process started on January 23, 2009, after PJIAE obtained the necessary building permits from Government.
MNO offered to construct the new road for US$ 2,197,982. Windward Roads bid for US$2,335,668.

After the offers by the contractors were opened in their presence on Monday, a PJIAE Evaluation Committee - comprising officials from the company's Technical and Financial Divisions- will evaluate the bids. Bids will be evaluated on the basis of their completeness, compliance with required specifications and price. "We should be ready to announce the winner of the bid within two weeks," said drs. Holiday. He said that bearing in mind the urgency to improve the traffic situation at PJIA, the intention is to execute this project as soon as possible. "We're looking at a period of eight month and possibly in a shorter timeframe."

The rerouting works should in broad lines follow the original Master Plan for the development of the airport. During the execution of Phase II of the Masterplan -which included the construction of the current terminal building - the original plan for the road network envisaged in the Master plan had to be adjusted. Drs. Holiday explained: "To execute the rerouting of the airport road as originally intended, PJIAE would need to acquire property east of the new terminal and north-west of the new terminal, the latter being the former BBW property. However, given that discussions associated with the acquisition of the latter property were not progressing favorably and considering the need to move the Phase II project forward, we decided to adjust the road plan"

In September of 2007 PJIA commissioned Netherlands Airports Consultants (NACO) to develop a new plan to reroute the Airport Road as much as possible in line with the original plans for the airport road.

AIRPORT ROAD REROUTING BIDS ACCEPTED.

The proposed airport road rerouting plan is a variation of the plan originally envisioned in the Masterplan and aims at:
1. securing and enhancing adequate traffic flow to/from the airport;
2. relinquishing the pedestrian crossing over the main road;
3. increasing the car parking capacity;
4. maintaining the possibility of future airport development in line with the master plan.

Coming from the east the proposed rerouted airport road will connect at the bend, where the entrance to the public car parking is currently situated, a roundabout will be created at that location. The new road will continue along the Simpson Bay lagoon flowing along the eastern and northern shoreline and then curves following the perimeters of the public parking lot to the west. At the front of the Terminal building the new road will connect with the existing airport road. To reach the public car parking coming from Philipsburg direction, motorists can turn left at the roundabout. To reach the public car parking coming from Maho motorists can use the airport frontage roads.

PJIAE hopes that through this investment that it will contribute to alleviation of the traffic congestions on this side of the island as well provide some stimulus in terms of economic activity in a period of uncertain economic times.

Reacting to questions by reporters, Drs. Holiday announced that the next project to be executed as PJIAE continues its role of catalyst of development is the Runway End Safety Area, which is an addition to the airport runway, located at its eastern end. "This project also entails a rerouting of the airport road, where the area is already filled in. We're in the process of finalizing the building permits," said Drs. Holiday.

Philipsburg:---On Friday, February 27, the St. Maarten Medical Center will be hosting their last [RED] Friday for the month of February. According to the [RED] Committee at SMMC there will be refreshments, a game and a raffle for a weekend stay at Pelican Resort. All snacks are being prepared by staff of the SMMC.

All persons visiting the SMMC on Friday will be able to enter a raffle with a prize of a weekend stay at Pelican Resort. In addition to that persons will be treated to food and drinks, and will have the opportunity to take part in a game entitled the ‘Love Box.' The usual HIV/AIDS awareness packets will also be given out.

According to Brunilda Illidge of the [RED] Committee, "It was quite an experience to be able to make our contribution to such a worthy cause. SMMC feel proud to be part of the Think [RED] Campaign."

Philipsburg: --- Members of the Operation Trust 2 managed to arrest five persons and confiscated a large amount of drugs and monies during a sting operation early Sunday morning.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said several persons in the community informed police that drugs are being sold at a particular house on Bruce Drive Cul de Sac. Henson said members of the Operation Trust 2 found a large amount of crack cocaine and cocaine powder, cellular phones, jewelry and a considerable amount of monies was also found. The police spokesman said all of the items have been confiscated, while five persons have been arrested.
The investigation he said is handled by the Narcotics division of the police department.

Marigot: ---- The two suspects who were detained on Sunday morning for their involvement in the shooting death of 21 year old Christopher Williams will be transferred to Guadeloupe today said head of the Gendarmes Loic Barras. The two men were arrested during a house search in Rambaud. The operation was conducted by some twenty gendarmes who are part of a special team within the gendarmerie.
The gendarmes also managed to find at least two weapons that were used during the early morning killings that left Williams dead.

In a brief ceremony the Sint Maarten Fire Department honored 7 employees for their outstanding attendance. The following 7 persons did not report sick during the year 2008: Carlos Arndell, Marvin Dollison, Antonio Gibs, Clemente Jones, Karl de Palm, Jonathan Williams and William York.
As a token of appreciation, these persons were presented with a certificate of achievement by Fire Chief Winston Salomon. The Fire Chief commended these 7 persons for his fact, in the presence of other fire fighters. He stated this achievement should be seen by all as an example to follow. He also expressed the expectation next year more certificates could be awarded if all personnel would follow suit. In the fire department team work in the shifts is very important and all shift members depend on each other's input and performance. Therefore the department decided to award these certificates to encourage all staff members to excel.

Philipsburg- An enthusiastic group of 40 plus strong students, instructors and staff participated in the St. Maarten Institute of Technology and Hospitality's (SMITH) orientation exercise on Monday February 2, 2009.

Key note speaker, Perry Wilson, Senior Branch Manager of First Caribbean International Bank, inspired the students and faculty with his moving story of how he climbed the corporate ladder from the age of 17 as a courier, to his position now as a branch manager.

He shared that he started with the Windward Islands Bank without a high school diploma, transporting mail from one location to the next, then after getting an opportunity to move to the data entry department he recognized the need for higher education when he realized he could go no further without a high school diploma. Consequently, after a few years he attained his GED; then an Associate's degree and finally a Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in Finance and Accounting, at the Hogeschool van Groningen, in the Netherlands.

Wilson's testimony impressed upon the students that the path to success is a life long journey of persistence, perseverance, determination and endurance to reach your desired goals and that furthering one's education greatly enhances that journey. The students were both challenged and inspired by his talk about his journey to success, as he spoke directly to where many of them find themselves now. His story also provided them with encouragement that despite their past setbacks, they are capable of succeeding in life if they persist.

SMITH's Education Coordinator, Sidonia Hodge-Lacorbiniere, exhorted the students that SMITH believes in them and expects from them excellence. Consequently, SMITH will demand their best efforts for maximum results so that ultimately they will complete the next two years of their programs successfully. She also emphasized that SMITH was just the beginning of their life-long road of continuing education of attaining their dreams in life and that they can be assured of the quality of their education.

Vice president of SMITH's recently formed Student Government Association (SGA), Isha Marlin also greeted the new students and shared some of SGA's goals and objectives for their term in office.

These ambitious goals include:
1. Assisting SMITH in acquiring its own facilities so that the students may have better facilities and their own identity as students.
2. Providing SMITH with more visibility within the community.
3. Encouraging and motivating the students to stick with the program and successfully complete their education.

SMITH's Social Coordinator, Erna Mae Francis, M.A., D.D. also shared her words of encouragement and inspiration to the students and facilitated an icebreaker which culminated in the participants sharing their favourite inspirational quotes. Sharing of these quotes was designed to provide inspiration for the students to successfully pursue their education. From this exercise, the class chose a cutting-edge quote to live by for this school year: "Go where there is no path and leave a trail."

Persons interested in attending SMITH or who would like more information about the courses offered, may contact the SMITH office at E. C. Richardson Street #23, Philipsburg, St. Maarten or call 542-1620 or 542-8969.

Cay-Hill:-- The staff of the St. Maarten Medical Center has joined the HIV/ Aids team yesterday as they would be thinking RED for the month of February. All dressed in their Red Tee Shirt the staff was in all smiles when the hospital's medical director George Scot declared the RED month open. Anthony Pantophlet said it took his staff two weeks to prepare for the launching of the RED Month which he believes would serve to educate the staff of the medical institution of HIV and AIDS. Pantophlet said while the hospital is a place where treatment for HIV/ Aids is give the staff has a lot to learn about the disease. "This month there would be a lot of information on HIV/ Aids at the SMMC and people would be more informed on the disease. It is intended that activities would be held on a weekly basis in recognition of HIV/Aids.
The St. Maarten Medical Center will be Thinking [RED] and Doing Safe for the month of February with an event every Friday. At the entrance of the hospital a special table will be set up with HIV/AIDS awareness packages and complimentary refreshments will be available to persons visiting the medical center every Friday.
The staff of the St. Maarten Medical Center will also attend HIV/AIDS awareness sensitization workshops, which will educate the staff about HIV/AIDS in a very interactive manner.
Stay tuned for the weekly activities every Friday at the SMMC.

MARIGOT: ----The Saint Martin Citizen Movement is informing the general public of its mobilisation against the high cost of living on the island, and is therefore inviting each and everyone to attend a meeting that will be held on Wednesday February 11th 2009 at the Chamber of Commerce (CCI) building in Concordia Marigot at 6:30 PM.

Topics to be discussed with a panel the concerns of the local and State government.
Those concerns are the labour cost and purchasing power, housing, rents, cost of living relating to the cost of groceries as well as sewage problems facing the residents of St. Martin.
President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs said the meeting is not limited to the list that is presented but all concerns of the people.
Gumbs is calling on the population to turn out to this very urgent meeting since he believes that if everyone is United they will stand but if they are divided they will definitely fall.

Philipsburg: --- The prosecutor's office now has the identification on the skeleton that was found last March in Cay Hill in the vicinity of the St. Maarten Medical Center. Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein said the decomposed body has been identified as Castro Rosario.

He said the man was identified through DNA testing. With the results of the DNA and other forensics the office of the prosecutors can now begin a criminal investigation. Asked if he knew anything of the victim Stein said it seems to him that the man was residing on the island illegally and is probably from the Dominican Republic. However, the latter could not be confirmed.

Philipsburg- Leader of Government Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams says she is pleased that the U.S. Congress and Senate approved President Barack Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of close to US$800 billion which is considered a major milestone on the road to recovery for the United States of America.
Wescot-Williams added that the Island Government is monitoring closely the actions being taken by the U.S. Government as any recovery of the U.S. economy will also translate positively for the Caribbean and St. Maarten in particular as a tourism destination.
As President Obama has pointed out, the act is only part of the process that his administration has undertaken to turn the U.S. economy around.
"I am confident that the measures being taken to address the failings of the U.S. financial system and bring back consumer confidence will work out, but it will take time.
"All nations around the globe are being confronted with this unprecedented economic recession. Obama's plan calls for stabilization, repair, and reform of the U.S. banking system in order to get credit flowing again to U.S. families and businesses.
"This should have a positive spin off for tourism in the Caribbean as those Americans who have decided to put their vacations on hold for now, will start to travel abroad as things start to look up.
"The Island Government is working in a diligent manner with the resources that we have and within the legal framework afforded to us under the Islands Regulations within the context of the Netherlands Antilles in dealing with this unprecedented global economic crisis.
"Government is somewhat limited in its possibilities, but will work closely with stakeholders to exhaust all avenues to take us through this global crisis. Government has the additional responsibility to guarantee public services, and will continue to do so even in these adverse times.
"Every citizen must understand that while there are individual choices and decisions, and in some cases adjustments to lifestyle to be made, we need to weather this storm together and work along with the private and public sectors to overcome this crisis.
"We have been tested before and because of our resilience we have been able to turn crises into opportunities. In difficult times we have also shown to band together. This time should be no different," Leader of Government Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Monday.

Philipsburg:--Commissioner of Culture Maria Buncamper Molanus announced that a committee has now been put in place to organize this year's St. Maarten Day celebration.
"On November 11, 2009, St. Maarten will mark the 50th anniversary of the Celebration of St. Martin's Day. The Island Government of St. Maarten is tasked this year with the organizing of the official festivities to mark St. Martin's Day considering the French government was responsible for the task last year." Buncamper Molanus said.

St. Martin's Day is already a significant, national day on the annual calendar of events for the people of St. Maarten. This anniversary year however, it is the intention to celebrate our national day with an impressive program of events on November 11 along with the customary pomp and pageantry. Culture will play a significant role in all festivities and will be the foundation upon which the event will be organized.

To accomplish this, there needs to be a dynamic, dependable group of persons designated in a committee to organize the yet-to-be determined program of events. These persons should also have experience in organizing events of such a local, cultural magnitude. It was also determined that it would also be beneficial to have persons in government service comprise this committee.
Having said that, the Executive Council has identified and approved the following persons to serve on the "St. Martin's Day 2009 Golden Anniversary Organizing Committee":

Fabiana Arnell - Stichting Overheids Gebouwen - Designated to head the Committee

Michael Granger - Office of Commissioner Buncamper
Faye Arnell - Office of Commissioner Buncamper
Lydia Arnell - Directie Ondersteuning
Dorothy Lake - Social & Culture Department
Youmay Dormoy - Philipsburg Cultural & Community Center
Rose Vlaun - Government Protocol
Marsha Beauperthuy - Government Information Service

It should be noted that the aforementioned persons have all organized major events on St. Maarten at one point in time. They bring a collective experience that will serve to benefit the St. Maarten day activities. This entire initiative will be coordinated through the office of the Commissioner of Culture.

The task of the "St. Martin's Day 2009 Golden Anniversary Organizing Committee" is two-fold:

1. To establish a program of celebratory events leading up to and on St. Martin's Day 2009. A tentative program should be ready to present to the Executive Council by March 1, 2009.
2. To be the executing body of this program of events on St. Martin's Day with the cooperation of all relevant entities (to be outlined in detail to the Executive Council).

Philipsburg---In an effort to keep HIV/AIDS awareness going and keeping their party patrons safe during sex, two party organizers, namely Elektra-"Pink 4 Love," and DJ Blaze organizer of "The Ramping Shop" came to the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team's Offices on Friday afternoon to collect over 500 condoms to distribute to their party attendees.

Valentine's is known all over the world as a time to celebrate love, and it is expected that during that time sexual emotions run high by persons demonstrating their love for each other. To ensure that persons remained protected from sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV/AIDS during that evening both organizers found it fitting to hand out condoms and HIV/AIDS awareness information to all who partied.

Elektra told Suzette Moses-Burton, HIV/AIDS Programme Manager on her show on Monday morning that she wanted to contribute in some way to the [RED] Campaign; therefore she gave out the condoms and the information brochures.

Suzette Moses-Burton stated that, "It is private initiatives taken by individuals in our community that will continue to help us spread the information about HIV and eventually reduce the transmission of HIV.

The more familiar people become with the messages of safety as well as other information about HIV, the less frightening it will become. For us to truly win the battle against HIV, HIV MUST become part of our daily vocabulary and way if life, so that we can ensure brighter futures for all of us.

Fear of HIV has hurt us more than it has helped, it is time to get over that fear and face this challenge head on. I am hopeful that as the [RED] campaign and other initiatives under the AIDS programme continues that the responsible actions demonstrated by Elektra and Blaze will be shared and expressed by others in our community. We all have a role, no matter how large of small, to play in the fight against HIV."

Philipsburg- Dengue Action Response Team (DART), the Island Governments multidisciplinary team coordinating the nation's dengue response, met recently to review the currently statistics related to dengue fever, and can confirm that the number of dengue cases are on a downward trend.

The number of laboratory confirmed dengue cases for January was 16 out of 95 laboratory requests; for December 2008 - 25 confirmed cases out of 151 laboratory requests and for November 80 confirmed cases out of 338 requests.

The number of hospital admissions for the month of January is 14 however only six of the patience admitted was confirmed dengue fever cases.

Persons experiencing dengue fever-like symptoms should still visit their family physician. Persons should also follow-through by going to the lab to have a dengue fever test carried out to determine if they actually have the virus. This information is very important for the statistical section at Sector Public Health, Labour & Social Affairs.

The DART Team advises that even though there is a downward trend, residents still have to follow the preventive actions that have been recommended throughout the information campaign.

To keep this number on the downward trend, it calls for each resident to change his/her behavior by keeping their immediate surrounding mosquito free. Those who require additional information about preventive actions should contact the Hygiene Department at 542-2079.

The Island Government approved an emergency budget of over Naf.300,000 in the last quarter of 2008 to cover a number of interventions related to the dengue fever outbreak. From the allotted amount, information materials such as brochures, posters, magnetic posters, and public service announcements were developed and distributed.

Some of the interventions taken comprised of house-to-house/yard inspections; increase in vector control fogging activities; and presentations to non-governmental organizations and schools.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that causes a severe flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults, but seldom causes death.

Leading a delegation of Miguel De Weever Director Of Economic Policy & Research, Fiscal/Tax Lawyer Mercedes James of the Finance Department, Jeannette Hagen
Head of the Constitutional Affairs Department and Veronica Jansen-Webster Executive Assistant, Commissioner Maria Buncamper is on a fact finding mission to Curacao in connection with the development of the financial services sector on St. Maarten. The delegation met on Thursday morning with Mr. Lionel E. Anthony of LAconsult and who is currently the director of CIFA (Curacao International Financial Services Association). This association promotes businesses in the financial services industry for Curacao. The focus of this meeting was the role that CIFA plays in the sector on Curacao and the exploration of complimentary services that St. Maarten could offer as it explores further development of this sector on St. Maarten.

Airport: --- State Secretary of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Mrs. Ank Bijleveld Schouten, arrived on St. Maarten at 11 am yesterday morning. Bijleveld Schouten was welcomed at the PJIAE by Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards and leader of Government Sarah Wescot Williams.
Media personalities were given the opportunity to take photos after which the State Secretary met with the island leader and chief of police prior to leaving the airport for her days activities while on St. Maarten. The purpose of the meeting at the airport was to give the State Secretary information on the Dutch Military policemen and technical assistants in the security chain. "We discussed the Safety Plan Netherlands Antilles, and ways to get money faster to St. Maarten," Bijleveld told reporters in a brief press conference. "I think we can reach an agreement about this issue in March, when there is a meeting of the political steering group." She said.
Shortly after that the state secretary met with the St. Maarten Housing and Trade Association who have been honking horns on the economical crisis.

Bijleveld-Schouten said that the SHTA is "very worried" about the economic situation on St. Maarten.
The SHTA are very worried about the decrease in the number of visitors from the United States to the hotels here. They want the Island Council and the Executive Council to make greater efforts to better economic situation."

In the afternoon, State Secretary, visited the No Kidding with Our Kids Foundation. The foundation provides a successful after-school care program in the district of Sucker Garden. Approximately 150 children who are kept busy with, among other things, homework counseling, sports, and handicraft and social skills are participating in this program. They also get a hot lunch every day which is partly funded by the Dutch funds.
She made clear that it is important for children to get an education but it is also important that they play and interact with each other.

Bijleveld-Schouten also touched on the constitutional reform, she said what is on paper looks good but they have to see if it would materialize practically. She also had a stern warning for Curacao regarding the May 15 referendum. She said Curacao must realize what they are doing in this process. And while they would be getting a good bit of monies the conditions are not negotiable.

While she assured that she is working for St. Maarten as being a country within the Netherlands.

Google's web-based email service, Gmail, has crashed this morning, leaving millions of users from Britain to Australia unable to send and receive messages.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE CAN BE FOUND ON Telegraph.co.uk at http://www.telegraph.co.uk/scienceandtechnology/technology/google/4797727/Googles-Gmail-service-crashes-across-world.html

 

Google?s Gmail service has suffered a worldwide crash preventing millions of users from accessing their mail
The email service went offline at around 10.25am GMT, and the outage appears to have affected users throughout the UK as well as across Europe, and even as far afield as Australia and India.
It appears that only web-based Gmail access is affected, and users can continue to send and receive messages using other devices, such as mobile phones and third-party mail clients.
Google could not confirm what had caused the outage. "A number of users are having difficulty accessing Gmail," said the company in a statement. "We are working to resolve the problem. We know how important Gmail is to users, so we take issues like this very seriously, and we apologise for the inconvenience.
"We are posting status updates about the problem at mail.google.com/support."
Bloggers and Twitter users were quick to flag up issues with the service. Google's web-based email system is usually fairly robust, and suffers little downtime, so many internet users were left baffled by the problems and at a loss as to what to do. Many Twitter messages offered workarounds to the problem, such as using mobile email applications, while other Gmail users said they would simply down tools and make a cup of tea and wait for the issue to be resolved.
Several major companies, including Telegraph Media Group and The Guardian, have switched to using the Google Apps suite in place of conventional desktop email. Google Apps allows users to work collaboratively on documents via the web, as well as share calendars, and provides instant messaging and chat alongside Gmail email services.

...

POINTE-A-PITRE, Guadeloupe (AP) - Unions in Guadeloupe scored a victory in getting a deal to raise some workers' salaries, but said Friday they will not end a general strike now concluding its sixth week on the French Caribbean island.
Leaders of the strike-organizing Collective Against Exploitation, or LKP, paused for handshakes and photos with small business owners after signing the deal just before midnight Thursday. The agreement raises some workers' salaires by $250 (euro200) a month.
The union leaders quickly turned their attention to unsettled issues of raises for thousands more workers and lowering food and energy prices many times higher than those on the French mainland.
"We have a meeting tomorrow afternoon with the prefect to continue the negotiations," LKP leader Elie Domota told The Associated Press after getting up from the signing table. Asked if the strike would now end, he said simply, "No."
The strike has shuttered stores across the island, chased away tourists and occasionally erupted into clashes between protesters and police. The deal was officially named the "Jacques Bino Accord" in honor of slain a union member killed leaving a strike meeting Feb. 17.
Starting March 1 those employers will provide up to half the salary increase for workers making up to $2,353 (euro1,849) a month, with the rest paid for by the French and local government. Workers making up to $2,690 (euro2,113) will receive at least a 6 percent raise.
But prospects for further salary talks were set back earlier Thursday when the French Caribbean department's large business owners refused to return to the negotiating table, accusing the unions of creating a "climate of intimidation and violence."
"Each day that passes, more and more companies face great difficulty, taking measures of unemployment, redundancy or are close to bankruptcy," the employers said, citing roadblocks and shop closures and accusing the LKP of physically intimidating business owners.
Around the same time, about 500 LKP supporters descended on a high-end Carrefour grocery store owned by a key business leader and kept open using nonunion workers during the strike.
The protesters chased off shoppers and chanted, "Employers are thieves, exploitation has ended!" as they knocked over shopping carts and barricaded the parking lot. French riot police were on hand but did not intervene.
Protests have also spread to the neighboring French Caribbean island of Martinique over high prices, low pay and alleged neglect by officials in Paris. Strikers have looted stores, burned cars and hurled beer bottles at police who responded with tear gas.
French Prime Minister Francois Fillon called Thursday for calm in Martinique and for all parties in Guadeloupe to quickly conclude an accord.

Marigot: --- The Gendarmes managed to capture two men of foreign decent for the murder of 21- year old Christopher Williams. The arrest took place early this morning (Sunday February 1, 2009) after a house search was conducted by a special unit within the gendarmerie.
A press release from the gendarmerie states that some twenty gendarmes participated in the operation which netted the two men whom they said is to be considered armed and dangerous. Also confiscated are the two guns and a number of cartridges. Both suspects are presently being held for questioning under the orders of the investigating prosecutors from Pointe Pitre. The investigation will determine the suspect's involvement in the cold blooded killing which occurred during the early hours of Friday morning.

Christopher Williams was shot to death with a shot gun early Friday morning in a house located on Rue Low Town. It is said that the victim in this case was known to be part of gangs and he was convicted on two occasions. SMN News was reliably informed that Williams was a school drop out who took the wrong path of life since in his early teens.

Competent Communicator and Vice President of Membership of the Philipsburg Toastmasters Club Mildred Heyliger was again commended on her dedication and commitment towards the Philipsburg Toastmasters Club. CC Heyliger recruited 8 new members to the Club within record time of 4 months. The Club received the coveted Smedley award, which is given for recruited 5 new members during the months of August and September. In photo: CC Mildred Heyliger and Club President Valerie Brazier before pinning the new ribbon on the Club's banner (in background)".

Philipsburg:--- Police have arrested three local teens on Saturday morning during a house search for their involvement in the killing of Akeem Lake who was gunned down on June 18th 2008 in Union Farm. Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein confirmed the arrest of three locals who are allegedly involved in the broad daylight killing. Stein said for the moment he is not divulging much information on the case since it is still a very sensitive case.

The youngsters were arrested on Saturday while police raided a house on Front Street. It is not clear if valuable evidence was also found and if there is a confession into the killing of Lake.
Lake a school drop out was part of several gangs as he had left his parents home. Just three days before he was slain Lake returned to his father's house in Belvedere. The intention his father had said was to have him enrolled back in school for the new school year but that never happened.

Professional boxing is set to return to St Kitts and Nevis in 2009 after some two decades of hiatus. This is according to the first professional boxing board of control that was recently established. The St Kits and Nevis Boxing Board of Control (SKNBBC) was formed according to an inside source with the aim of governing and monitoring the sport which has been credited as being ideal for the Caribbean.

The nine member executive board was established in January this year with the responsibility of managing and executing professional boxing.

An official from the newly formed SKNBBC said that with the establishment of the Boxing Board of Control fans can and should look forward to seeing a number of professional cards with the first being slated for the end of February. The official issued a call to corporate community to lend their support in whatever way possible noting that while we re all affected with the financial crisis it is easier to address than to be affected with crime crisis.

"The financial crisis is a phase that we can get through safely but with a crime crises I am not sure how and if we can get through that as the results are death, broken families among other ills," he said.

The official who requested anonymity pointed out that wit Quality Trading Supplies already coming on board with Winair airlines to demonstrate their commitment and support to professional boxing revival in St Kitts and Nevis he foresees that several of the problems that that affects youths here will be addressed. The sponsorship support given by Quality Trading Supplies and Winair has punched life in the stock of young men and women, and we foresee that a number of new boxing gyms will erupt thus being able to be registered with the boxing board of control.

The time has come for the federation young amateurs to have their time in the ring as a number of boxers who had graduated from the amateur ranks have had to sit by hoping for their bell.

Nelson noted that the wait is about to come to an end, stating that the first professional fights for a long time are being planned for May 2009 while planning will begin at the end of February by the SKNBBC at Carnival Village. He noted that the card is being dubbed "Caribbean Invasion" and is expected to have a number of boxers from Guyana, St Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago and St Kitts and Nevis.

The event is being planned by Prince Promotions along with Quality Promotions and The St Kitts Nevis Boxing Board of Control.

Another official of SKNBBC expressed open appreciation and excitement with the disclosed plans for the new body

"We have seen some amount of growth within the amateur or feeder level, and now for the pros to get their day in the ring is a big move... SKNBBC is totally behind this venture as we believe that with St Kitts and Nevis image growing as an ideal tourist destination then sports tourism is the best approach that one should tae in ensuring that the economy garners well needed finances," he said.

He added, "... I trust and hoe that other promoters will come forward and apply to the SKNBBC for licenses to stage cards here in St Kitts and Nevis as with more promoters in the fray of things it means more fights for boxers and ultimately more revenue for the federation of St Kitts and Nevis".

ST. PETERS-The students of the St. Maarten Academny (Academic) launched their public service announcement that was created by students on the topic of HIV/AIDS.

The PSA came about after a youth consultation (Nov. 2008), which had the aim of coming up with ideas about preventing HIV/AIDS.

The students came up with a jingle to target other youths they believe because of their youth, other kids will listen to them. The theme was, "Youths reaching other youths." And the song which the students worked on was "Live your life" by American Rap artist T.I.

Commissioner Maria Buncamper-Molanus congratulated the students on the initiative and job well done, not to forget other students while doing great social work.

This group has certainly joined a well-respected, hard working, group of young people doing excellent work in the community.

The theme for this year HIV/AIDS program is "Think red, Do safe." And we are doing well, we have reached milestones. And along these lines, on behalf of the government of St. Maarten, we appreciate what you are doing. Young people listen to other young people, and every one, hopefully, will listen and follow the positive message about prevention.

And this effort is an example to other young people, who will not only listen but contribute in their own right to the efforts to "do safe."

We can't do it on our own; we need the rest of the community and the media to spread the message.

The PSA was paid for by St. Maarten Aids Foundation and will be aired for 3 months on the radio stations. The lyrics were written by the students.

SEVERAL CIVIL SERVANTS TOOK OATH ON TUESDAY.

Philipsburg:--- Several vendors at the Philipsburg Market Place are calling on Economic Affairs Commissioner Maria Buncamper Molanus to get her act together and properly represent them as well as to secure the taxes for the island government if not the vendors would move to plan B which is to take action.

The vendors said while there is a world wide economic crisis and government around the world is doing all they can to assist businesses the island government of St. Maarten namely commissioner Buncamper Molanus has so far failed to come to the aid of the vendors.
Ingrid Davis said she has been selling on the market for the past 25 years and she has pleaded with the commissioner of economic affairs as well as with former commissioner of tourism Theo Heyliger to come to their aid but to date neither of the two commissioners has done nothing.

Davis said the island government has been demanding a lot from them but so far failed to provide proper security during the rainy season. She said vendors who are very hard workers do not have any medical coverage and she personally asked the commissioner of Health Care Affairs Maria Buncamper Molanus to see if she can mediate with SVB so that independent workers such as the vendors can get medical coverage but the commissioner she said did absolutely nothing.

Another and most grave concern for the vendors is the unfair competition they are confronted with by Rima wholesale store. Davis said the market vendors are the ones that built Rima since they are the ones who suggested to the businessman what he should bring in to St. Maarten as wholesaler. She said over the years the vendors supported Rima when they were just selling wraps but today the businessman is putting them out of business and government is doing nothing.

Davis further explained Rima was not even selling their merchandize to the Indian stores instead it is the vendors who supported him from the beginning but today that has changed because management of Rima no longer wants to sell anything to the vendors on a wholesale basis since he is now advertising on the cruise ships, hotels and is even paying taxi drivers to take their clients at the store to shop.
She said Rima is also paying the tour bus drivers to take the tourists to his shop instead of allowing them the half hour time to shop from the local market vendors. "That same tour bus driver who told Commissioner Heyliger that he cannot park in the space allotted for tour buses because he cannot turn around properly is now parking in front of Rima store on the Pond fill because Rima is paying him on the side." Davis said.
The businesswoman said that Rima is selling their items cheaper to the tourist claiming they are a tax free zone but vendors she said are burden with heavy taxes. The business woman said government just made a new rule which states that if they do not pay their license fees which amounts to Naf.1,200 annually on time they would have to vacate their spot. Davis said Rima wholesale and retail prices are the same and they simply cannot compete with the unfairness. She further explained that the vendors tried boycotting Rima buy buying other merchandise from the Indian stores in Back and Front Street and Rima management had someone namely his wife buy their things and had it re-fabricated in China and sells it at a cheaper price. "The tourist is coming to us and asks for directions to Rima store because they have the flyers from the ships." One vendor said.

Davis said they are casting the blame on the island government since government has allowed the businessman to get away with everything. She said she personally met with commissioner Buncamper Molanus who basically told her that there is nothing she could do to Rima.
Vendors have to pay some Naf: 1, 200 as fees to use the space they are using also they are have huge taxes at the end of each year. Noussomee Francessca expressed the same sentiments. Francessca said they are spending their days sitting outside in rain and sun and is not making any monies to pay their bills. She said there are parents who are working very hard on the market but they are not able to feed their children at the end of the day much less pay their dues.

Another vendor Gabriel Brown who was obviously upset about the entire situation said she has four children to feed and educate and the way things are going she simply cannot meet her payments. Brown said today (Thursday) there are four ships in port and look there is no one on either side of the market shopping. But if you pass by Rima you would see where the taxis park up.
An elderly Democratic Party supporter who was in the immediate area when the interview was taking place said she personally spoke to the DP leader about this problem. The woman said she also went to Rima store and confronts them about their doings but nothing changed. The elderly woman said the vendors need to get together and fight the battle because they would never be able to survive if this continues.
This reporter did pass by Rima to see if what the vendors are saying is true and there were taxis parked up in front of the wholesale store as well as those who were on their way out. On the side walk there is a sign belonging the Dutch St. Maarten Taxi Association with their number. On the DSTA sign it is written in clear bold letters "DSTA pick up and drop off". Efforts made to get a comment from the newly elected President of DSTA Scotty Priest have proved futile up to press time.
What is beyond comprehension the DSTA has over the years been complaining about unfair competition with the Tour Buses and Water Taxis but today they are the ones who are offering the unfair competition to the vendors for a few dollars more.
Efforts made to contact Commissioner Maria Buncamper Molanus on the allegations proved futile since the commissioner did not answer her mobile phone throughout the day yesterday.

Philipsburg-President of the Central Bank Emsley Tromp gave a presentation to the Island Council members yesterday. Acting Governor Millicent Acuna Lopez de Weever, and several other government officials, on "The financial crisis and its impact on St. Maarten's economy."

Tromp explained the origin of the financial crisis in North America, borne out of a period of low interest rates, increase in the demand for mortgages, facilitated by flexible lending standards, promotion of asset price bubble (increase in credit), and when the bubble burst and home prices started to decline.

Then there was the ripple effect, whereby the housing market decreased and banks sought to under write these bad loans, which were exaggerated in the first place. Larger lending institutions went bankrupt, were sold, or required government action.

Thus with the multiple and spill over effects throughout the rest of the world, the credit crisis and lower consumer confidence was born.

There were measures taken to improve the confidence. However, by injecting cash from the central bank or cutting interest rates, all done to stimulate the economy, the market though decreasing will not be fully decimated.

On the domestic economy, there will be a tightening of credit standards, an intensifying of financial supervision, increasing costs in the financial sector, which will lead to weaker economic growth, and slower pace of inflation.

From the American Market to that of European countries, all did some reshuffling of capital injections, providing tax breaks to investing in infrastructure, providing insurance for citizens through guarantee savings to a certain point and nationalizing some financial institutions.

Although many thought that the major economies like China, India, and Brazil would somehow soften the financial crisis, they did not. Thus the lending rates are at an all time low, stock market developments are still uncertain and consumer confidence is still low.

Having said all this, the Central Bank President said that the Domestic banking situation is in good shape because they were not based on externalities like those other countries. However, there will be indirect effects because of the lowered economic activity, because of the decrease in tourism, and because of consumer dissonance, the economies of the Netherlands Antilles will be affected.

The main trading partners and the source of an economic comeback are the United States, the Netherlands, and Venezuela-who themselves are not doing well in this economic down turn. But because of the restrictions and the methods of operations, the Banks of the Netherlands Antilles are relatively secured.

However, there is little that can be done to stimulate the economy of the Netherlands Antilles for a variety of reasons, one of which is the effect of the budget and debt relief from the Netherlands, among other factors.

 

The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association met with Rudolphe Samuel, Hyacinth Richardson and Patrick Illidge, National Alliance members representing the Central as well as Island Government, and senator Frans Richardson on Thursday February 5, 2009. The meeting was upon request of the National Alliance members to discuss the U.S. 4.1 Million Dollar Emergency Marketing Plan, submitted by the SHTA and the Tourist Office, to safeguard the estimated 2000 jobs at risk. Various short-term solutions were explored during the meeting, such as: the temporary elimination of Turn Over Tax and the reduction of business license and permit fees.

Cole Bay:--- These are pictures taken of a car, which front-wheel got stuck in a hole, dug by our utility-company GEBE, quite a while ago and which was never properly covered, exposing non-suspected drivers and their vehicles to potential harm and damage.
This particular incident took place on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at the intersection of the Windsor-road/Windsor-lane in Cole-Bay.
Despite the many calls and e-mails in the past to GEBE, actions to correct this dangerous situation caused by GEBE itself, never did the company even respond, let alone took the responsibility to correct the situation.Needless to state that not everyone will continue to put up with this totally unacceptable attitude of GEBE.
Therefore one day, GEBE might have to face legal and financial consequences in the event of any serious injury or damage to vehicles falling in that particular hole.
Pictures taken by Leopold JAMES, property-owner and resident in that area.

Simpson Bay:---EPIC, St. Maarten Pride Foundation, St. Maarten members of the Emerging Global
Leaders Program, St. Maarten Academy students and staff members of Saratoga
Restaurant carried out a very successful joint clean-up of the area of the Simpson Bay
Lagoon adjacent to Saratoga restaurant on Saturday February 7th 2009.

The area cleaned by volunteers was covered in a large amount of algae. These
Ecologically harmful algal blooms are the result of an excess of nutrients in the lagoon
caused by overflowing septic tanks, overflowing sewage systems and free flowing
untreated sewage which enters the Lagoon from surrounding districts and boats. Aside
from algae, volunteers removed soda cans, bottles, and countless cigarette butts, sanitary
material, Styrofoam, plastic bags and a variety of other garbage from the lagoon.

EPIC interns discovered a significant amount of oil flowing into the street from the generator room at Casino Royale in Maho on Sunday February 8th, 2009 . Foundation representatives took pictures and contacted the relevant authorities.

Philipsburg: ----- The island council of St. Maarten paid special tribute to former island councilman and commissioner the late Cyril Ebenezer Richardson who passed away last week.
Giving the opening address was Chairman of the island council Franklyn Richards. Richards said Richardson had a distinguished career in the civil service during his employment. Richardson worked in the department of finance prior to being appointed advisor to the executive council in 1986.
Richardson began his political career in 1979 when he postulated on the Democratic Party slate in 1979. He replaced the late Raymond Nicholson in 1986 in the Island council. In 1987 Richardson also replaced Sydney Wathey who had to resign since his father was also elected to the island council in 1987.
Richards said Richardson served during the most turbulent years in politics, since for the first time a motion of non confidence was presented against two commissioners. He said Richardson played a momentous role in the nation building of St. Maarten and has served his time well. He is known as a man of the people who stood by his beliefs.

Richardson he said would dare to challenge the leadership of his own party.
Also paying tribute to Richardson is National Alliance leader William Marlin the only member of the island council who served with Richardson. Marlin remembered Richardson as man who meant business when in public office. He said during those days there was no enemies even though they were on opposing ends. He said it was during those years St. Maarten had functional cooperation in government.
He said one of the things that stands out most for Richardson is the turbulent period of 1987 and 1991 when the turmoil was in the Democratic Party. He said Richardson is the only one who was brave enough to stand up at the lectern and fired his party former leader and the late Claudius Wathey. Marlin said Richardson fired Wathey because he was an adviser to the EXCO during that time and was trying to remove the council with information he provided to them.

Leader of Government Sarah Wescot Williams also paid her tribute to Richardson. One of the moments Wescot Williams said her first public speech was done in Richardson home in Cole Bay.

After the tributes the members of the Island Council signed the condolence registry before it was presented to his relatives who were in the public tribune. During the special IC meeting a video tribute was played highlighting his days in office. Cyril Ebenezer Richardson was laid to rest later in the day.

MAHO BAY-GEBE technicians finalized the electricity connection for the Maho Group of Companies on Friday, February 6, 2009. As part of the electricity supply agreement that was signed on January 30, 2009, GEBE had two weeks to complete the connection. However, the project was completed ahead of schedule by the GEBE and Omrod technicians who worked diligently to expedite the process.
GEBE and Maho signed the electricity supply agreement after more than two years of negotiations. The main reasons Maho switched were an increased reliability of service and cost effectiveness that GEBE offers. The Maho properties were officially switched over to GEBE power at 7:30 p.m. Friday evening. As a result, the Maho plant turned off its engines indefinitely after operating since 1993.

MARIGOT-Students of the three Colleges including the Lycee were not able to attend their regular classes yesterday after their teachers decided to resume their strike actions. The teachers are demanding better working conditions.
The action taken by at least 100 teachers is linked to the strike actions in Guadeloupe. It was initiated by the teachers at the Lycee early yesterday morning. According to teachers their unions did not receive any answers to their demands since their one day action on January 29.

One teacher at the school said the action which began yesterday is not a one day action but no decision has been taken as to how long the protest would continue.
The teacher said they need more autonomy on St. Martin for them to function adequately.
Some of the concerns of the teachers are the safety and security at schools, the shortage of qualified teachers. A meeting is set for February 15 with the Recteur's representative Robert Romney.
Teachers on St. Martin are also supporting the actions that are taken in Guadeloupe since the teachers here are faced with the same predicaments relating to cost of living.
Former first vice president Marthe Ogoundele Tessi a teacher of the Lycee said the population need to get involved in the movement since everyone is suffering to some extent.
In the meantime the Citizens Movement of St. Martin has also joined in solidarity with the teachers as have EDF, France Telecom, and representatives from Collectivity staff. A peaceful march is planned for later this week in which primary schools are also expected to take part.

A group of birds including Great Egrets, White-cheeked Pintails, Black-necked Stilts, Common moorhens and Greater yellow legs, sit on a Rockwall in the Great Salt Pond. The White-cheeked Pintail and Black-necked Stilt lay their nest on these rock walls. Government's plan to fill a large portion of the Great Salt Pond to facilitate the building of a ring road will have a devastating effect on the many species of birds, crabs and fish in the pond. It will also be wiping out a significant amount of rare physical evidence of our ancestor's strenuous labour and St. Maarten's history through the destruction of many of the rock walls in the pond.

Marigot: -- Close to 700 hundred persons turned out to march peacefully through the streets of St. Martin to protest against the high cost of living on the French side of the island. The marchers began gathering in the parking lot of the Lycee Polyvalent around 8 am. Carrying banners and chanting as they walk the street were mostly teachers who are protesting against the working conditions at the dilapidate Lycee and College Morn des Accords.

The teachers said while one newspaper on the island is accusing them of wanting more monies the truth is they want better facilities for their students. Some students they say are attending school with an empty stomach simply because their parents cannot afford to feed them properly. "When children are hungry they simply cannot perform and something must be done to reduce the high cost of living on St. Martin. Yogurt which is part of every child's diet in France is considered a luxury on St. Martin and that must not be" said former first vice president Marthe Ogoundele Tessi. She said right now St. Martin needs price controllers. Ogoundele Tessi said prices on St. Martin are exorbitant as one liter of milk costs over two Euros. "Teachers are not fighting for themselves only as perceived in the St. Martin's Week; instead these teachers are seeing students in front of them daily without proper nourishment. Under nourished students cannot perform well and they are being criticized by everyone but the question should be asked why are these students not able to perform adequately." Said Ogoundele Tessi. Ogoundele Tessi said cost of living is one of the reasons St. Martin students drop out of school since parents simply cannot afford to feed their children. "A yogurt should not be a luxury instead it should be part of every child's diet." She insisted.

Ogoundele who once held the education portfolio at the COM said those in office took away the files from her and now they need to move faster on them. She said the teachers have a number of issues and they can no longer hold on and wait on the COM. She said the conditions at the Lycee are deplorable and they have to do a proper renovation of that school. Those in COM have to either start building the other College or Lycee even though this is a huge investment. She said when she was in office it was identified that another Lycee is needed on St. Martin as well as another College and the teachers have to make sure it is given to them even if it involves a fight. She said even though the COM is lacking finances they have to stay focus and make sure and remember that Education is their priority. "We have to let education remain our priority we cannot allow delinquency and other negative things take over. Education was the former President device and we have to stick to it" Ogoundele Tessi said.

The marchers said something has to be done for education, security, health care, the economic crisis since the entire island is in danger. "Students they said are deprived of a proper education facilities to perform optimally in the schools and if this trend continues then the younger generation will never be prepared to handle their own affairs in the future.
As they sang through the streets they asked if President Frantz Gumbs already forgot their plight in the education system since the president worked as the deputy director for years in the Lycee. They said the president has given them false promises when he met with them and they need him to respect those promises.
Jessica Hamlet, a teacher by profession and sister of the late Jean Luc Hamlet called on the locals as well as parents to come out and support them in their fight since what they the teachers are doing is not for their own benefit. Hamlet said St. Martin youngsters need to be given the right tools and nutrition so that they can receive a proper education. Hamlet said it does matter if the teachers do not benefit from these actions but it is of ultimate importance that St. Martin is left in the hands of its younger generation. She said it is important for the students of St. Martin to be given the proper education so that they can get the right positions in government. She pleaded with parents to encourage the teachers, stay close to them so they can have the courage to continue the fight. Furthermore, she said locals' needs to come out and join the struggle. "You all should not sit back an think that whatever Guadeloupe achieve would benefit us, we are no longer under Guadeloupe so don't fool yourselves, come out and fight for your island" she pleaded.
Another teacher said they do not have what is needed to educate the students. She said that the entire island is in danger and this is not normal.

As the marchers move through the streets several businesses began pulling their shutters down showing respect to those protesting. Through the main street of Rue de la Libertie, Rue de Kennedy and Rue Charles de Gaulle the marchers made it a point to stop and let the shopkeepers know they are against the high prices on the French side of the island.

Upon arriving at the Collectivity a large delegation representing the MOSCAM and the other unions such as UTCG, EDF, the LC Fleming Hospital went into a short meeting with President of the COM Frantz Gumbs and his team which includes VP"s Claire Javois, Dr. Louis Jeffry, Pierre Alloti, and Daniel Gibbs as well as the Director of President Cabinet Pascal Averne. During that meeting the protestors made sure they gave the elected officials a list with their grievances which of course include the road tax that the COM is demanding from its citizens.
A meeting is planned for Monday afternoon said President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs.
President Gumbs in a statement to the press said after the meeting with the union and the Collective they have accepted to hold a first meeting at the COM at 5pm on Monday which would involve delegated prefet Dominique LaCroix as well as the school authorities namely Mr. Romney the Rectorat representative. He said during the short meeting they managed to address a few points which concerns the Lycee and its equipments, sports equipments for the College.
Gumbs said the Collectivity does have some initiatives to take and they would be assuming their part of the responsibility. The president said it is important that the Collective (MOCSAM) should not have all their questions at once since the answers with the solutions will not be given at the same time. Gumbs said it is important for them to get the calendar so that they would know when each of the points will be dealt with. He said the focus of the meeting on Monday will not be dealing with if the demands of the teachers would be met instead they would be discussing when these things would be done.

Asked if he did not think there are too many strikes taking place and when would solutions be found. President Gumbs said that since the last strike of January 19 they did not remain sleeping instead they did advance on some of the files. He said next week when there is a one week vacation all toilets of the Lycee will be repaired. Gumbs said the work will take place but they cannot execute these work while the students are in school. He said some of the work will be done during the Easter or even the summer vacation. Furthermore, the president explained that for things to get done they need to find the companies and the monies to meet the people's need. In cases like these he said a bidding process sometimes has to take place along with other administrative procedures. Asked by SMN News if he forgot the issues in the education system of St. Martin since took up his presidency position.

President Gumbs quickly responded by saying he did not forget anything and it is impossible for him to forget what has happened in education on St. Martin. He said even though he is in a different position now and has a different perspective the fact of the matter is that the College in French Quarter is the newest school built on St. Martin and presently it is the most degraded school on the French side. "How can this be explained, maybe the school was built with materials that were not good I don't know, while the Lycee was not maintained for ten years. I must admit the Region Council did put some monies in this school two years ago. I agree the needs of the schools are important but these things have to be planned since it requires lots of funding. This kind of work cannot be done in one shot it must be planned for years. " Gumbs said that someone already indicated that they need two swimming pools but he do agree they need two pools but both cannot be built during the same year.

After the meeting the marchers then hurried over to the Sous Prefecture where a delegation was invited to meet with Prefet Dominique LaCroix. Prefet LaCroix said he understood the points and he would be looking at them keenly. LaCroix said there is a price controller already on the island but the person is not focused on pricing at the moment. Lacroix promised that he would make sure proper price controls in done on the island reported Julien Gumbs.
Outside of the Sous Prefecture the teachers made sure they entertained themselves as well as the marchers who had to wait outside of Sous Prefecture. There was drum beating and dances to the tune which kept everyone alive until the meeting concluded with the Prefet.
Outside President of the MOCSAM said the prefet would be participating in Monday's meeting. He also encouraged the marchers to continue peacefully. The protestors the moved back down to the center of Marigot in front of the Nina Duverly School where several persons spoke. So far it is not clear if all those that participated in the march would remain in protest. Julien Gumbs said right now everyone is busy analyzing the progress they made thus far and hopefully a firm decision will be taken on how to proceed.

Photo Gallery of Black Friday strike on French St. Martin below.

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Philipsburg-Certificates were presented to 22 civil servants working within Government's administration departments in the Claude Wathey Legislative hall yesterday afternoon.

Commissioners Sarah Wescot-Williams and Maria Buncamper-Molanus were present to congratulate the graduates on their successful passing of the course.

Commissioner Buncamper-Molanus pointed out the importance of this course.

The management of documents is an important task. Imagine if we could not find a document for a court case or for a reference report to construct a policy, we would not get too far. So do not underestimate the value of your contributions in this field.

I congratulate you on taking the course, improving your skills, and enhancing government's apparatus. Your work is appreciated and recognized.

Commissioner Wescot-Williams said that just like we are building the country for constitutional separate status, step by step, brick by brick, so too are we building the civil service core.

You have completed yet another course, while still doing your regular work, you are to be congratulated. Though the obligations are many, sacrifices are many, the satisfaction is great. You are definitely contributing to the government organization and the future country St. Maarten.

You have increased your knowledge about document management and information technology, which is crucial for the administration. I can't tell you that it (courses, continued education) ends today, for learning is a life long process. I want to thank you for contributing to the functioning of government.

The Island Secretary, Joane Dovale-Meit, was also present to provide some words of encouragement and wisdom.

Your achievement is impressive, for you the participants of the training course you have applied yourselves with dedication to upgrade your knowledge and skill set in the benefit of the entire organization.

I salute you, the 22 graduates, on your achievement. You are a credit to your organization. Your families and your co-workers are deserving of a word of thanks as they too have undoubtedly played supporting roles in your achievement.

The true measure of success, besides the first step, of this training program is in its implementation, the use by each and every one of you of your newly developed skills and knowledge in your work environment.

I want to congratulate you for a job well done.

Cay Hill: --- Women on St. Maarten can now breathe a sigh of relief since there is one more gynecologist that is added to the fleet at the St. Maarten Medical Center. However, the problems of the medical institution is still far from finished since there are still two gynecologist on call. Presently there are three gynecologist working at the hospital namely Dr. Michel Petit, Dr. Chung and Dr. Randal Friday who signed the contract yesterday.
Medical Director of the St. Maarten Medical Center Dr. George Scot in an email to this media house said that that Dr. Randall Friday signed an admittance contract with the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) on February 16th.
Now that parties have inked the contract which had several controversies Dr. Randal Friday of the Women's Health Clinic in Yogesh Building can now admit patients to the SMMC as of February 16th. However, the executive council still has to give Dr. Friday clearance work outside of the hospital. It is understood that Dr. Friday has to make sure the conditions of the NV is in compliance with the moratorium that is now in existence.
SMN News learnt that Sector Health Care Affairs is busy updating Dr. Friday's file but it is not clear when inspection would take place for the Women Health Clinic to open.
It is also understood that Dr. Friday plans to begin working at the hospital as early as today and he may begin operating on his patients as of Wednesday. Efforts made to contact Dr. Friday last night has proved futile up to press time.
The agreement is signed by both parties for a period of three years. Dr Randall Friday will remain the first year of the agreement in his private clinic, while the SMMC will upgrade part of the out-patient facility in order to offer suitable doctor's office in the SMMC building. After the first year Dr Randall Friday will re-locate his private clinic into the SMMC. Both parties want to work towards a fruitful relationship and have no intentions to look back in history. We are both committed to deliver quality health care and there for we have to work together in a constructive manner and that is our mutual intension.

Philipsburg:---Officials of the various Basketball Associations met with Commissioner of Sports Maria Buncamper-Molanus to apprise her of board changes, future activities and other relevant issues pertaining to the associations.

Present were outgoing President of the St. Maarten Basketball Association (SMBBA) Emmanuel York, President of the St. Maarten Youth Basketball Association (SMYBBA) Gordon St. Luce, board member of the SMYBBA Jamal Newton and candidate for President of the SMBA Daniel Berry. Absent was the other candidate for the Presidency of the SMBBA Elvin Lake.

York explained that since his appointment as President of the Netherlands Antilles Basketball Federation (NABFE) in January 2009, he has decided to step down as president of SMBBA and take up an advisory role in the board of SMBBA. As such, there are two candidates for the position of president of SMBA, Berry and Lake. Elections will soon be held among the teams that are members of the association. The SMBBA will approach the Sports Federation to ask them to oversee these elections.

Both the SMBBA and the SMYBBA indicated to the Commissioner that the fees for the LB Scott Sports Auditorium absorbs most of their budget and that they would like to get some kind of a reduction in fees or assistance with the payment of these fees.

The Commissioner encouraged them to look at alternative ways of getting funding as the Foundation Upkeep Sports Facilities, the entity that manages the auditorium, also needed the funds to pay off there loans and upkeep costs. Berry indicated that he had an elaborate business plan that, when executed, would be able to cover all the costs and this would be able to cover costs for the senior basketball players as well as the juniors.

The meeting also focused on the fact that St. Maarten has strong basketball talent and athletes, but is lacking in overall structure which hampers becoming membership in the Internatinal Basketball Federation (FIBA). Many teams, for example, are not registered at the notary.

Buncamper-Molanus suggested that the SMBA explore the possibility of establishing and enforcing a new criteria that stipulates only teams that are registered at the notary may participate in the local competition. Also the choice of legal establishment, foundation or association, was discussed. The advantage of becoming an association with members, the Commissioner said, is that the members can feel a sense of ownership in the organization.

Turning to upcoming competitions, the Commissioner was briefed on the Antillean Championships which is scheduled to take place on St. Maarten form November 6 to10, 2009, leading up to St. Maarten's Day.

The Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) tournament was also scheduled to take place in St. Maarten in July 2009, however Curacao and St. Eustatius have indicated that they are not ready as yet for that tournament. St. Maarten can always participate wherever the tournament will be played. However, the President of the CBC would really like for the tournament to be held in St. Maarten and has not been successful in securing another host island as yet.

The Commissioner encouraged Emanuel York, in his new capacity as President of the NABFE to push for St. Maarten to still host the tournament as this will be very beneficial to St. Maarten having so many people from the regional islands present.

"I must say that currently there is definitely unity in basketball on St. Maarten and I am very please with this. The more cooperation we have the quicker and more efficient the sport of basketball will develop. I extend the best of luck to all of the associations and assure them that my involvement and support is there whenever they need it," the Commissioner concluded.

Philipsburg- Officials from the St. Dominic School, the Catholic School Board, and an accompanying consultant, paid a visit to commissioner of education Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams to discuss a highly regarded educational program.

The topic of discussion was the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, an educational program examined in one of three languages (English, French or Spanish) and is a leading university entrance course. It is taught in 2,075 schools, often in international schools, in 125 countries all around the world (as of 2007).

The program, administered by the International Baccalaureate Organization, is a recognized pre-university educational program. Students take six subjects, and must also complete 3 extra requirements: the Theory of Knowledge course (ToK), a 4000-word Extended Essay (EE), and at least 150 hours in CAS (Creativity, Action, Service) areas. Marks are awarded from 1 to 7 in each subject with 7 being the highest, and up to three additional points may be awarded depending on the results of the EE and ToK essays, according to Wikipedia.

Commissioner Wescot-Williams heard from the committee about what they have done thus far in terms of trying to acquire the program for the school, as an addition to High School academics.

Recently, teachers have gone on training, new classrooms have been built, and parents are supporting the IB program-all of which are requirements among others to be considered to be eligible for the IB program, according to the St. Dominic educational officials.

Commissioner Wescot-Williams said that this program is beneficial for high school students who want to advance their academic careers. It offers many the opportunities to accelerate their tertiary education, so students when they go away to college will be well prepared and would have to take fewer classes, in essence shortening their time away from St. Maarten. Another good thing is that the program will be open to other secondary school candidates.

Commissioner commended the education officials on trying to acquire such a program.

Philipsburg- During a central committee meeting held on Monday which was chaired by Island Council member Leroy de Weever, presentations and discuss among other topics the proposed on Corporate Identity for future Country St. Maarten, Same Sex Marriages, and a presentation on the Golden Rock Estate.

For the presentation on the project of Corporate Identity for St. Maarten, present were the Steering committee, the Sounding board, and the workgroup, who explained about the project in detail, from the initial idea for the reason of establishing a corporate identity to the current developments.

The Corporate Identity project, which was presented by the Department of Program and Project DPP Project manager Andrea Ortega and Head of the Socio-Cultural Department, Neville York, is now up for approval and consideration by the Island Council members.

The second part of the Central Committee meeting, consisted of a presentation to the Island Council members on the subject of same sex marriages from a biblical, social, and legal & constitutional development point of view by members of the religious community. A congregation of religious leaders, including the Council of Churches, gathered at in the CWL hall the Government Administration Building in support of the rejection of same sex marriages.

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Education Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams would like to congratulate the new board that was elected to carry out the plans for Journey for Education (JFE).

The board was introduced to the community this week via the media and also announced its plans for the next two-years.

"JFE is a significant social-educational organization that has played a very important role for more than a quarter of a century within our community.

"The foundation has assisted many students with a supplementary scholarship. I am very confident that the new board will carry on the good work that its founder the late Gaston Boasman promoted over a period of 25-years.

"The volunteer sector within our community plays a very important role in providing various services and products to our society. I wish the new board much success with their plans for 2009," Commissioner of Education Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS).

One of the plans of JFE is to raise an amount of US$25,000 in its pledge system, which had been introduced about five years ago under the presidency of Gaston Boasman.

JFE is also planning its annual walkathon scheduled for April 4 and its gala dinner in November.

Funds raised go towards supplementary scholarships for St. Maarten students pursuing tertiary studies on the island and abroad. Since the establishment of JFE, the foundation has awarded more than half a million dollars in supplementary scholarships.

Elections for the new board were held back in December 2008.

MARIGOT-The Collectivité of St. Martin is informing taxi and limousine drivers that a session of the course Formation de Capacité Professionelle de Taxi which is mandatory for all persons wishing to exercise the profession of taxi or limousine driver will take place over two consecutive weeks beginning Monday March 2 through Friday March 13 2009, from 3:00pm to 8:00pm at the Immeuble des Raisiners in Galis Bay, Marigot, (across from SDL).
Registration is open at the Bureau de la Réglementation de la Direction des Transports et des Secteurs Emergents, Rue Victor Maurasse, Annex of the Collectivité. Tel.(0590) 29.67.26 and Fax (0590) 29.33.17.
Registration fee is 150 euros and is payable at the office of the Régisseur de Recettes de la Collectivité at the former Ecole Bord de Mer.
Professionals who have not yet taken this course are reminded that it is a mandatory course for all taxis and limousine drivers.

As part of her working trip to Curacao, Commissioner Maria Buncamper Molanus and her delegation met with officials at the Bureau Intellectual Properties. Director Mr. Sluis met with the delegation to give an overview of the work that is done at the bureau. This is one of the areas that St. Maarten has to prepare for during the coming months as preparations are made to take over the responsibilities of the Central Government partially in July and then in December of this year. Bureau Intellectual Properties deals with the registration of trademarks, patents, copy rights among others. A demonstration was also given of the registration and information was provided including the annual report 2007. Agreements were made to organize informative sessions on St. Maarten in May of this year. The Commissioner's delegation is comprised of Miguel De Weever Director Of Economic Policy & Research, Fiscal/Tax Lawyer Mercedes James of the Finance Department, Jeannette Hagen Head of the Constitutional Affairs Department and Veronica Jansen-Webster the Commissioner's Executive Assistant.

PARIS, Feb 20 (Reuters) - French Prime Minister Francois Fillon asked unions and employers on Guadeloupe on Friday to accept a new aid package and end a month-long strike that erupted into violent protests on the French Caribbean island.

Responding to wage protests in which a union leader was killed and shops were burned and looted, France brought the activists back to the negotiating table by offering a range of measures to alleviate economic hardship on the island.

Protesters have asked for a 200-euro monthly rise for poor workers to cope with the rising cost of living on a densely populated island that relies heavily on expensive imports.

"Now I'm expecting employers to propose an increase in wages," Fillon said on Friday. "I'm expecting the unions to appreciate the importance of the efforts that have been made."

Unions agreed to negotiate but described the latest offer as inadequate and refused to call an end to the strike, which has paralysed Guadeloupe.

President Nicolas Sarkozy on Thursday announced measures worth 580 million euros ($729 million) to help France's overseas regions, including aid to poor families, relief from social security contributions, and price controls.

"There is nothing new in Nicolas Sarkozy's announcement. It's still far from what we are demanding, which is a 200 euro salary increase," said Elie Domota, leader of the island's mass protest movement, "Liyannaj Kont Pwofitasyon" or "Stand Up Against Exploitation."

Employers have mentioned possible increases of 35 to 120 euros, depending on the sector.

The unrest has highlighted tensions reaching back to the colonial past of Guadeloupe, one of four overseas regions that are part of France and the European Union.

Rising food and fuel prices, high unemployment and low wages have fuelled resentment against the economically powerful minority of "beke" or white families, often descendants of slave-era colonists.

The strike has spread to neighbouring Martinique and protests have broken out on French Guyana and the Indian Ocean island of Reunion, the other regions.

Thursday night was relatively calm on Guadeloupe, police said, with only some small fires and isolated gun shots, compared with the street battles between youth gangs and riot police in previous days. (Reporting by Emmanuel Jarry, additional reporting by Colette Borda in Pointe-a-Pitre; editing by Janet Lawrence)

Marigot: --- Shoppers on the French side of the island may soon be able to get some relief when shopping at the Match and US Import on the French side. This is according to MOCSAM president Julien Gumbs.
Gumbs said already the two largest supermarkets on the French side have agreed to reduce at 10 to 15 % on at least 100 to 120 of their products, which would be applicable by March 15.
The agreement Gumbs said was made during a meeting that was held at the Sous Prefecture last Friday. However, a follow up meeting is planned for this Thursday where it would be decided on which products the reduction would take place. The MOCSAM and some of the Unions on the French side participated in a protest march on February 13th where focus was placed on the high cost of living on St. Martin.
Gumbs also said that they are planning to broaden the scope on getting more merchants involved in reducing their prices so that they can attract business back to the French side of the island. To be included is the freight companies who would have to reduce their shipping cost which would enable the supermarkets to sell their products cheaper.
The MOCSAM president said they are busy taking part in a number of meetings which would lead to success in the near future. The group of activist are planning to update the public by the end of the week on their achievements thus far said Gumbs.

St. John: --- Several residents of St. Johns Estate have called the police department for assistance this week when they noticed a number of wild monkeys approaching their homes. Neighbors of Mauby Drive St. Johns said on Monday about 3pm in the afternoon they noticed about 25 monkeys in the area of the Qualichi Center. They said the monkeys are on the hunt for food and while they may be living in the hills they are now approaching home where young children lives.
Police Spokesman Johan Janchi Leonard said he was personally approached about the matter which can become a real nuisance if not handled properly. Leonard said they the police are now looking to find those that are handling animal welfare to check into this matter and to see if these people can at least capture these animals and place them in a safe environment. "While we are not targeting any specific organization we would be seeking to see who can assist with the problem at hand". Leonard said.

Isidore York better known as the Mighty York said he personally saw at least 25 monkeys in the yard of the Qualichi Center on the pomserrat trees. "When I saw these animals I called out to my neighbors and children who were all amazed at the different sizes and color." York said he personally became concerned because it was evident that the monkeys are wild and living on the hills but now they are looking for food they are approaching the homes.
When this reporter visited the area yesterday there was no sight of the animals mainly because renovation work is taking place at the home next to York's. The resident has since promised to take photos if and when the animals return.

Pamela Sims from Animal Welfare said they occasionally are called to catch monkeys. She said that this is not an easy task and the neighbors have to assist with the process since they would have to train these animals to come at the same time and location which would make the trapping easier. Sims said Animal Welfare is not set up to catch wild animals and they are being hindered since they only have three people working in the ambulance team. Another down side to this episode is the St. Maarten Zoo is not accepting no more monkeys since they have more than is needed at the Zoo. The only alternative Sims said is that when these wild animals are trapped they are taken to the Animal Centers where they are put to sleep even though they regret the idea there is nothing else that can be done.

Residents of Bel Air also expressed the same concern saying that people have brought in these monkeys from St. Kitts and when they get older and become nuisances they are being released in the wild. "Right now there are several wild monkeys that live on all the hills on St. Maarten and if people are to begin some sort of kitchen gardening to combat the economic effects the monkeys are the ones who would be harvesting the crops."

Philipsburg:---On Wednesday, a group of 20 children ranging between the ages of 5 and 13 years of age from the "I can Foundation", along with 4 adult leaders paid a visit to the Philipsburg Police Station where they were greeted by the police spokesman Inspector Ricardo HENSON.
The children were given an educational tour of the entire police station and an explanation on what takes place there on a daily basis. This tour would enhance their knowledge on the aspect of law enforcement. During the tour the children paid very close attention to what was explained and found it very interesting.

Philipsburg- The Executive Council in its meeting of February 10 has taken a decision related to the official holidays for 2009.
The days are:
Friday, April 10 Good Friday; Sunday, April 12 Easter Sunday; Monday April 13, Easter Monday; Wednesday, April 29 Carnival; Thursday, April 30 Queen's Birthday; Friday, May 1 Labour Day; Thursday, May 21 Ascension Day; Wednesday, November 11 St. Maarten's Day; Tuesday, December 15 Kingdom Day; Friday, December 25 Christmas; Saturday, December 26 Boxing Day; and Friday, January 1, 2010 New Year's Day.

Unions in the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe have signed a deal to raise workers' salaries, but have not ended a five-week-long general strike.
The agreement will see the wages of the lowest-paid workers supplemented with a 200-euro ($254; £178) monthly payment.
But union leaders said the strike would continue until France's government had addressed spiralling prices, which are far higher than on the French mainland.
The strike has crippled the island and occasionally erupted into violence.
Last week, union leader Jacques Bino was shot dead by rioting youths at a barricade in Guadeloupe's largest city, Pointe-a-Pitre.
A similar strike has taken hold on nearby Martinique, where the situation has become calmer after two consecutive nights of riots.
Both Guadeloupe and Martinique are full overseas departments of France, but prices on the islands are generally higher while wages are lower than on the mainland, and unemployment stands at 20%.
Hundreds of police and gendarmes have been deployed from France to support local security forces and help restore order.
'Injustice'
Unions and employer groups on Guadeloupe signed an agreement on Thursday to pay a 200-euro monthly supplement to those workers earning less than 1,400 euros ($1,770; £1,250) a month.
Other workers will see a wage increase of about 6%, though this will be negotiated separately by each sector, Henry Berthelot, secretary-general of the CFDT union, told the Reuters news agency. The French state will contribute half of the wage increase from 2009 to 2011.
However, after the agreement, union leaders quickly turned their attention to other demands, such as the lowering of food and energy prices.
"We have a meeting tomorrow afternoon with the prefect (local administrator) to continue the negotiations," the leader of the LKP union, Elie Domota, told the Associated Press.
Asked if the general strike would now end, he said: "No."
On Friday, French President Nicolas Sarkozy admitted that "not everything has been resolved, but finally progress is being made".
"I'll go to the French West Indies in a few weeks' time to scrupulously keep all the commitments I have made," he told the AFP news agency.
"When you approach things calmly, when you honestly try to find the right solutions, when the issues are dealt with seriously, then that calms the situation down, of course," he added.
The president also said that "the same causes of injustice, of feelings of injustice, exist in Martinique as they existed in Guadeloupe".
"So we need to find ways and means of restoring dialogue, reducing tensions, and above all providing concrete answers to the problems our compatriots in the West Indies are experiencing," he said.
"It is absolutely not right for prices to be much higher in the West Indies than in metropolitan France," he added.

WILLEMSTAD - The referendum committee couldn't turn in her report today, as was settled, said Douwe Boersema, who was brought forward by the committee as the new chairman. According to him, the committee will have the report ready as soon as possible.
The committee will come with recommendations on among others a date, phrasing of the questions, and information campaign for the coming referendum about the political future of Curacao. The committee didn't manage to get the report ready due to the developments of the past period, like Armin Konket opting out as chairman after the opposition parties started to question his possible impartiality. Konket didn't want to be an obstacle for the political process in Curacao.
Boersema says that the committee will present the report soon; when exactly, he couldn't tell this morning. "Main thing is that we present a good report that was established by means of consensus."
Boersema went more in depth on the commotion around the referendum committee, something he regrets. He emphasized that there is need for peace and quiet around the committee. Boersema, who had the function of secretary in the then committee during the last referendum in 2005, doesn't think that this commotion would also affect his nomination
Main figure

The reaction of the opposition parties on the nomination of Boersema is very mixed. MAN-leader for example wants to give him the benefit of the doubt for the time being. This is his personal opinion, because the party hasn't discussed this internally yet. "But the way this happened, shows again how the BC functions. The BC doesn't want and cannot take decision and leaves it to others."
Also FK-member Gregory Damoen is willing to give Boersema the benefit of the doubt. "I do not know personally which option he prefers. He has experience and is an expert. The fact that he is a European Dutch citizen doesn't really matter. He lives and works here and the interests of this island are number one for him." Damoen still wants to know from the BC which criterion it used to nominate members in the referendum committee as chairman. He asked Ombudsman Fred Wile to include this matter in his investigation into the nomination of Konket.
PS-leader Helmin Wiels is not pleased with the nomination. "It is the same movie with a different main actor. He is a lawyer with a firm that does a lot of work for the government. You can't expect him to be objective regarding advising of the government. All these people were appointed for political reasons. The BC works very arbitrary in this process. Just look a John Jacobs, who is also appointed in the committee. He is managing director of the Chamber of Commerce, an organization that has already declared herself openly in favour of a ‘YES'. How do you expect such person to be objective?

Amigoe.com

Philipsburg-Commissioner of Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus attended the graduation ceremony for 13 Registered nurses in the medical field at the Belair Community Center last Friday evening.

Also present was State Secretary of Health George Pantophlet and Director of Sector Health Care Affairs, Jorien Wuite.

At the Registered Nurse Graduating Class of 2009, which had the theme of "Hold on to your dreams," Commissioner Buncamper-Molanus congratulated the newly minted nurses on their success.

"You have worked hard and now you are a R.N.. Congratulations. It is said that in order to get to the top of your profession you need an education, and you have taken that step. You are indeed an example to others. Congratulate yourselves," Commissioner Buncamper said.

Commissioner added that she thinks that if you have a calling, then the nursing profession is no better calling, for it helps people in more ways than you can imagine.

"It is a profession much needed not only throughout the world but especially in St. Maarten, considering the constitutional developments. Country St. Maarten needs you with the help of all of us. Once again, congratulations."

Director, Sector Health Care Affairs, Jorien Wuite, had some words of encouragement as well for the RN's.

Congratulations on becoming Registered Nurses. The patient care of St. Maarten dictated that more nurses were needed. Thus the health care sector is improved with 13 new registered nurses.

I commend you for striving for excellence. I know it was hard, balancing personal life, and social life. Having no time for these things but just being dedicated to your education.

Nurses from St Eustatius and Saba were amongst the thirteen nurses from the Windward Islands who completed the course, which ran from 2006-2008, in conjunction with Nursing school IFE in Curacao.
For the first time this course was conducted in English language and is recognized through out Europe and North America.

 

Philipsburg:--- The three suspects that were arrested last Saturday suspected as the killers of 14 year old Akeem Lake has been split up confirmed Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein. Stein said one of the suspects was sent to Curacao another to Saba while one remained here. The idea Stein said is to make sure they do not influence each other. He said for this reason they have chosen not to release much information on the investigation since they are still busy interrogating the suspects who are all from St. Maarten. "We simply don't want to mess up the case by having the suspects reading stuff in the media". Stein said.

Stein also confirmed that the investigation is now being handled by a special team of officers comprised of the RST, local police and the Curacao Police. He said this team is specifically charged with investigating some of the unsolved cases from last year.

Akeem Lake was gunned down on June 18th 2008 in Union Farm, the youth who was practically living among gangs had a run in with other youngsters concerning a scooter his father said at the time of his death. It is suspected that the killers committed their act during a drive by shooting spree.

A serious car accident occurred yesterday evening on the French Quarter main road. Both vehicles were severely damaged in the accident but the two female drivers have decided to shoulder their expences without police intervention. Both vehicles were carrying Dutch license plates.

St: Peters:--- Students and parents of the Starlight Education Foundation can now breathe a sigh of relief since management of the school along with several businesses who came to the school's aid managed to sign an agreement today (Thursday) which paved the way for the re-opening of the school on Monday. Teachers, cleaners and parents are asked to meet at the school at 1 pm today (Friday).

Spokesman for the businesses Roberto Richardson told reporters yesterday that the businesses paid Naf 50,000 as a down payment on the rent arrears and they would continue to pay off the debt on a monthly basis. Richardson said they also signed a new lease agreement which would last until August 1 2009 where the businesses would cover the rental expenses. Richardson said that one of the things the parents can guarantees is this problem will not re-occur until the end of the lease agreement.

Students of Starlight Education Foundation was put of school since January 9th after the marshals placed padlocks on the doors of the school for the lack of rent payments. The few businesses who came together intend to negotiate with the island government and the school to make sure they meet government criteria for subsidy. One aspect to make sure the finances of the school is properly checked. He said Starlight has to comply with the criteria and they would be putting a committee in place to make sure the transition takes place. While the school director said they already meet the criteria that are set down by education department but somehow they are still in the same position which is without subsidy.

Richardson said the matter of Starlight Education is a very touchy case since the issue at hand is not popular. He said this is a case of undocumented children which everyone has allowed to take place. This situation is tied into immigration and if not dealt with then the students of this school can become a menace to society. "Right now with all the crime and the youth being the future is the perfect place to start and one should not only focus on the status of the children. Instead people should have love for children and people as a whole". Richardson said.

Richardson said he was in discussion with the education department who is abreast with the new developments. While the padlocks will be removed between today (Thursday) and tomorrow Friday the cleaners and teachers would use these two days to clean up back the school and prepare for the reopening on Monday.

Starlight Education has been providing education to under privileged students since 1992 said Director of the Institution Carmen Hodge. Hodge said while people is of the opinion that her school only provide education to undocumented students that she said is far from the truth since the commissioner of education Sarah Wescot Williams had one of nephews attending the learning institution. "Starlight Education has a Kindergarten section that caters to everybody and several locals send their children to our Kindergarten section until they are of age to attend the public schools" Hodge said.

Hodge said while she is grateful for the assistance the island government was trying to provide to the sixth graders but the school she said has reopened its doors for all its students from Kindergarten to grade six and she would like those grade six students to remain in the system where they began their curriculum.

Philipsburg: ---- State Secretary of Health George Pantophlet says that discussion with the Minister of Health Omayra Leeflang has given him a better indication as to what areas has to be tackled regarding Healthcare specifically on St. Maarten.
After meeting with government and the relevant health care institutions Pantophlet says he would be busy preparing a plan of action identifying the issues that can be dealt with on short term and long term basis
The newly appointed State Secretary said he places emphasis on the collaboration and cooperation of all involved. It is often said that crime is everybody's business and he believes this can also be said of health. Nothing can burden on a country more than having a population where too many are having health issues. Just to name a few such as poverty, unemployment and worry all of these make life stressful and can definitely cause health problems.
Pantophlet said he also learnt recently that the issue of Dengue has been reduced significantly since October to around 40 in November which he hopes will be down to zero shortly. He is still awaiting the December and January figures which are being compiled. Also the matter of "How Healthy is St. Maarten". The report uses figures from 2000. These must be updated.
He is also concerned about the fact that HIV Aids is still on the rise. The programs are continuing and I commend all those persons involved. But these will be unsuccessful if individuals don't change their behavior. Another problem that has been ongoing for too long has to do with Turning Point being given the same status as "Brasami" on Curacao. We need a short term solution to this long term problem.

Philipsburg:------ Minister of Internal Affairs Roland Duncan met with the employees of the Inspectorate of Taxes on Saturday. The meeting was not successful. Some employees charged that the meeting they are not satisfied the way the matter is being handled.
The employees of the Federal Tax Office are calling for a 25 percent allowance on top of their gross salaries for excessive work, with an already understaffed office and are also asking that this allowance be retroactive from January 1, 2008.

Last week the employees walked off of their jobs in protest and expressed their dissatisfaction with the manner in which they are treated compared to their colleagues in Curacao.
In a letter sent to the Minister of Finance of the Netherlands Antilles Ersilia de Lannooy requesting the allowance they requested that they be treated as their colleagues in Curacao and as a result should have the same benefits. The Finance Minister was quoted as saying that the employees on St. Maarten work less and their dealings with the public leave a lot to be desired.

In the meantime, Minister Duncan said that a representative of the Minister will be visiting the island this week and will be providing the civil servants with the relevant information and he is expected to make an assessment of the situation in discussion with the representative of the Island Government. He said that the representative will also see what the needs of the department are and provide the Federal Government with a cost analysis.

Duncan said that they have secured the funding from USONA and will provide St. Maarten with a Quartermaster.
He said that he has met briefly with the Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs Sarah Wescott-Williams with regard to the execution of this project. He said that the representative of his office is expected to report to him within 10 days with all the relevant details.
Questions were also raised with regard to the evaluation of the workers and particularly the letter that is being sent to them concerning their salary scale. One employee enquired about her evaluation for 2008 that has not been done as yet. Duncan assured her that there will be no problem because if they did not received their evaluation but received the letter then they will be able to make a decision and either reject or agree with the evaluation.
He also outlined his position with regard to personnel affairs and mentioned the letter that was sent to the Minister of Finance and said that his ministry is willing to offer any advice. What was ironic he said was that the court case will be handled by his department and stressed that they will be taking ‘a passive role' in the matter since they will be hiring an attorney to handle the case.
He said that they further discussed the transfer of the civil servants from the Federal Government to the Island Government and has issued them with a copy of the decree that was signed at the Westin Resort on November 24, 2008. He explained that the document is very detailed with regard to the transfer of personnel from the Federal Government to the Island Government.
He indicated that by the end of December the Federal Government will cease to exist and as a result all there will be no further elections for the Federal Government. When this happens he said all governments must have a democratic base and once this is done them the term of office for the Island Council will be shortened. New elections for the new country are expected to be conducted by the end of the year since all the powers will be transferred to the Island Governments.

Willemstad:--- The Netherlands makes a start with the rescheduling of the debt of the Netherland Antilles by paying the present amount of nearly 128 million Antillean guilders. Approximately 55 million Euros in repayments and 19 million Antillean guilders, while approximately 10 million Euros in interest payments with respect to the period January - April 2009.
The debt rescheduling in behalf of the Country the Netherlands Antilles will take effect
Now that the Board of Financial Supervision recently issued a positive recommendation with regard to the 2009 Budget of the Central Government, and the Government's commitments with regard to interest payments and debt servicing on Account of its debts with respect to the period January - April 2009 have been approved by the auditor. In a letter dated February 5 State Secretary Ank Bijleveld for the Interior and Kingdom Relations congratulates the Antillean Minister of Finance,
Ersilia de Lannooy, on the compliance with the conditions for starting with the
rescheduling of the debts of the Central Government.
Thus also a start has been made with the implementation of the agreement that the new countries in the Kingdom and Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba, as special municipalities, would be provided with a financially sound start.
The Netherlands has set aside an amount of about 1.7 billion Euros for the debt
rescheduling. The debt rescheduling consists of two components. For the arrears in
payments an amount of about 240 million Euros has been allocated, while the
remaining amount will be used for debt repayment plus interest payment. For the
BES as early as in November 2007 an amount of 27 million Euros was already
deposited on an account with the Bank of the Netherlands Antilles for the purpose of
making up the arrears in payments.
In accordance with agreements made earlier, 100 percent of the repayments and 70
percent of the interest payable on the loans of the Netherlands Antilles will be paid
by the Netherlands.
Rescheduling the repayments and interest payments after the period of January -
April 2009 will only be started after the Netherlands has received an auditor's report
with regard to these data as well. It is expected that it will follow soon.

Philipsburg: ---Members of the Island Council approved the National Health Insurance for St. Maarten. The approval includes three phases of a development model. Also approved is Naf 58,320 funding for phase one to three while another naf 20,000 was approved for travelling expenses.
The first phase of the Insurance plan is expected to be completed within a two months time frame
Commissioner of health care affairs Maria Buncamper Molanus in her presentation said when the island assumes its country; government would need to improve its services

With this in mind the Island Government has embarked on developing a National Health Insurance System for the people of St. Maarten, which will provide improved service to its people.

On September 11, 2007 the Executive Council of St. Maarten approved, in principal, the review of the present health insurance system, considering the concept of a national health insurance system for Country St. Maarten. Research was done and discussions were held including members of the Island Council.
Island Councilman Rudolph Samuel posed several questions to the commissioner regarding the quality of care and the type of medical insurance that would be provided to the people.
The commissioner in her response said this plan is already one step higher than what is provided by the Social Insurance bank SVB.

Marigot: --- Scores of teachers and residents of French St. Martin came out to a public meeting which was called by the citizen movement MOCSAM at the Chamber of Commerce Building last night. The teachers who already are on strike two days ago said students of the Lycee as well as the Colleges on St. Martin are attending school in deplorable conditions. They said it seems as if the local government is waiting for something really bad to happen before they act. There are cases where electricity wires are in water and pigeons droppings are falling on the students head.

While teacher's are working for months and are not being paid at the end of the month. One teacher said he has been working for the past three months and is yet to receive a salary. Another concern for the teachers is the fact they are not being able to get training courses which would prepare them for the school population on St. Martin. "Students on St. Martin are speaking more than one language and the teachers only speak French. This is not the fault of the students but it's us the teachers because we are not given the opportunity to be multi-lingual".

They said it is incomprehensible for the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Frantz Gumbs to ignore their plight since he is fully aware of the situation. Gumbs was a deputy principal for years at the Lycee and today he is acting as if he does not know. One teacher said it seems as if politics has played with the former school teacher head.

Other residents who were also part of the meeting said that shop owners on the French side thinks shoppers are stupid because they tend to increase the prices of food and other items. One shopper said she takes her Euros and go over to the Dutch side and shop because the things she would get for her monies is far more than she gets on the French side. The woman said the Chinese only change the dollar or guilder sign to Euros simply because they think shoppers on the French side are stupid. Another resident said gas prices began going up since the Euros was introduced and no one said anything. She said today gas price is so high with no increase in salaries yet elected officials are calling on residents to pay the road taxes.
One of the main reasons the residents say is the cause of the high cost of living is the lack of price controllers.

A union representative said it is incomprehensible for him to understand how the elected officials at the COM would suspend the tax de la fortune (Tax of the Rich) while they are forcing poor people to pay road tax. He told the gathering they should not be afraid of the elected officials since they are the ones that put these persons in office. "we are not to be afraid of the elected instead they are the ones to be afraid of us".

President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs in his address called on the population to express their concerns on the economic situation on St. Martin. The Collective he said will be addressing these issues with those responsible. He also made clear that there is no intention on his part to block the roads or to create confusion today as is being rumored. Gumbs said while the situations facing St. Martin is of grave concern the movement plans to move forward in a peaceful and strategic way.
Among the residents last night were fourth vice president Dr. Louis Jeffry, RRR leader Alain Richardson, territorial Councilor Louis Mussington and DGA Pierre Brange.

 

French Quarter: --- A mother of six children is now mourning the lost of her third child, 18 year old Alex Stevens. Alex Stevens would have made his 19th birthday on February 23.
Stevens was one of three boys who left their homes late Wednesday afternoon to go swimming. Cassandra Stevens told SMN News while on Orient Bay beach this morning (Thursday) during the search that her son wanted to go swimming with one of his brothers and the neighbors children she said she particularly instructed the boys not to go to the beach but Alex she said still went to Coco Beach where one of her daughters are working.
The distraught mother said about 4: 00 pm yesterday (Wednesday) she learnt her son went diving and he did not make it back up. Ever since then the gendarmes have been searching but they did not recover the body.
The search she said resumed early Thursday morning with the brigade nautique and with the Dutch police helicopter. The body of Alex Stevens was recovered shortly before 10 am by the search team. His body was taken to the Cul de Sac Bay where several family members including his mother, father and grandmother gathered as the teen's body was removed.

Speaking to SMN News was the two brothers who were with Alex at the time of the incident. 13 year old Claudio said while sitting to the edge of the beach Alex jumped into the water and dived twice. The youth he said came up and began calling for help and he jumped in to assist but Alex he said was pulling him down since the water current was very strong. "I tried saving him but he was pulling me under too, I had him holding on to my back as I tried to swim ashore but he somehow lost grip of my shoulder. As he was loosing grip he scraped by back with his nails before going down." Alexis the other brother said he also went in the water to help and he told Alex to hold on to his shoulder as he swims ashore but Alex held on so strong that both of them began going down. "I began taking in water and at one point I thought that was it for me but a big wave came and wash me ashore. It was then I tried to breathe and recuperate, then I noticed my younger brother and someone else was assisting but somehow they too did not manage to save Alex. We did our best to save our friend." SMN News learnt another youngster by the name of Belto was with them during the ordeal.

Also on the beach when the body was recovered is Alex's Grandmother Nathalie Azile who is no stranger to sorrow. Mrs. Azile began whaling when she heard the news that her grandson's body was recovered and he was indeed dead. "This is the second blow for me. Someone killed my daughter Brenda Azile 11 years ago and dumped her body in bushes of Oyster Pond and now my grandson. The same God that gave me strength when I lost my daughter will give me and my only daughter Cassandra the strength to deal with this lost. I am in fear for my daughter because she had a breakdown when she lost her sister now she lost her son". Mrs. Azile said.

The gendarmes is expected to release information on the case later today said Commandant Stephanne Arrousseau who was on the scene when the body was found and taken away.

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Constitutional Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, on Thursday evening provided an update to Unions representing Federal Government employees about the constitutional process especially as it relates to the transfer of tasks to St. Maarten and the transfer of personnel to the island.
Representatives from WICSU, ABVO and NAPB representing Federal Government employees were present for the information session that took place in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
Information was provided about the dismantling process, the Island Governments organizational development projects, the constitutional transformation process, the Island Government organizational structure and Island Government systems.
"The meeting with the unions is part of the constitutional information process to keep essential stakeholders informed and up to date on constitutional developments and also to give them the opportunity to ask questions.
"The presentations were well received by those present. It is our responsibility to make this process of transfer of tasks, responsibilities and of personnel from the Federal Government to the Island, to go as smoothly as possible.
"Clearly the unions representing Federal Government employees are concerned by the lack of information from their employer for federal civil servants.
"We discussed the implications and progress since the signing of the November 24, 2008 accord between the Island Territory and the Federal Government. An overall overview of the status of affairs and specifically the aforementioned agreement and the conclusions of the December 15, 2008 Round Table Conference were provided to the attendees.
"It was an open, frank and transparent discussion. The Federal Government employee union representatives were in agreement that a representative from the Federal Government be present at the next information session which is tentatively planned for next month," Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Friday.
The Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs was supported by Constitutional Project Coordinator Dennis Richardson, Luud Hakkens from the Personnel Department and Interim Head of the Bureau for Constitutional Affairs Jeannette Hagen.

Marigot: --- The teachers of the Lycee and the three Colleges that are on strike do not intend to go back to work unless they get more clarity from the Collectivity and the rectorat. The teachers union including the some members of the MOCSAM met with members of the territorial council and the Sous Prefet yesterday evening as they try to iron out some of the grievances that were presented to the elected and state officials on Friday during the protest march.
President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs said that the COM and the State prepared a document addressing some of the issues. That document Gumbs said was presented to them during the meeting. He said so far several meetings were scheduled to discuss the issues at hand. The first meeting is scheduled to take place today where matters pertaining to the schools will be discussed. While the MOCSAM is content with some of the answers that were given there are a number of issues that were not touched. One such issue is the selling of the vignette which the MOCSAM has been protesting from day one. Also not addressed are the "Tax de la Fortune" and the VAT that was suppressed by the Territorial Council. Gumbs said the MOCSAM will be meeting later today where they would be analyzing the document they were given. He said after that meeting the MOCSAM would definitely be submitting an answer to the COM and the State. Gumbs said some of the answers that were provided by the elected officials can be accepted while others are not. The MOCSAM he said plans to hold further discussions on these points until they can get a more favorable answers. He said they would definitely be seeking answers from the COM as to why they did not answer them on the vignette, impot sur la fortune and the VAT on real estates.
Gumbs said a meeting is planned for Friday this week where they would be looking at ways in dealing with wholesalers of certain goods. This meeting is geared at the pricing of certain goods and services on the French side of the island. Another meeting is scheduled for February 27th which would be dealing with housing, while another meeting is scheduled for March 3rd where they would further discuss the issues of the schools on St. Martin. It is expected that a representative from the Rectorat will be in the island for this meeting. Gumbs said the meeting that is scheduled for today the unions and the teachers would be dealing with the issues that falls under the competencies of the Collectivity while on March 3rd they would be dealing with the issues of the Rectorat.
LaCroix on Vignette.
In an invited comment Delegated Prefet Dominique LaCroix said that the road tax or sale of vignette is completely legal since it was voted in by the territorial council. LaCroix said the only set back with this taxation is that the COM still does not a decree which would give the gendarmes or the Territorial Police the right to issue fines for the non payment of this tax. He said while the COM cannot take anyone to court for these taxes they still can try to convince the people to buy the vignettes. However Julien Gumbs had a little discussion with LaCroix and the two men is not of the same opinion. Gumbs made clear he would wait and see what the outcome of the court case would be.
In the meantime President of the Collectivity of Saint Martin Frantz Gumbs said they did not respond to certain items because they do not see it as an immediate threat to the community. He said the COM concentrated on the most urgent issues which they believe is their direct responsibilities towards the schools.
President Gumbs said they also believe some of the issues at hand were politically motivated as politicians he did not see the need for them to respond. He said the issues related to the vignette and tax de la fortune is not coming from a social movement instead they believe it's more of a political move from the oppositions. He said as a politician he has no problem answering the questions since they have worked on the files and they do know what they are speaking about. President Gumbs said even though there is a difference of opinion they do know what they are speaking of on a political standpoint. He made clear they do have all the answers for the list of grievances but they did not have enough time to give all the answers to the MOCSAM.
On the issues of the schools he said the teachers were not satisfied with the answers they were given and as such they would be having another meeting today to shed more clarity which includes dates. President Gumbs said the COM has all the answers for the teachers but the document which they provided to them could not outline the details they are requesting. He said the COM would be providing the answers these teachers by the end of March in a series of meetings.

Philipsburg:--Commissioner of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus is encouraged with the decrease in confirmed dengue cases but stressed to the general public to remain vigilant in helping to eradicate mosquito breeding.

For the month of January 14 suspected dengue cases were admitted to the hospital
from the 14 cases 6 were confirmed. "We are presently awaiting feedback from our French colleagues for collective consensus on the change in numbers," the Commissioner said.

Nevertheless, she continued, the decrease in cases is in part a direct result of government's awareness campaign, hands-on action by Sector Health Care and good response from the community at large.

"Even with this decrease the house to house inspections will continue and awareness information where persons are reminded about their contribution to eradicating mosquito breeding places will be stressed. Don't forget to go to your physicians for diagnosis and to the lab for confirmation," the Commissioner said.

She continued: "We sometimes have a mindset that something can't happen to me, but that's dangerous frame of mind when it pertains to mosquitoes here in the tropics. We know for a fact that still lying water will attract mosquitoes, and therefore have the risk of a typical dengue breeding ground. We need to be much more vigilant as a community," the Commissioner said.
Fever and other signs of dengue last for two to four days, followed by rapid drop in temperature with profuse sweating. This precedes a period with normal temperature and a sense of well-being that lasts about a day. A second rapid rise in temperature follows. A characteristic rash appears along with the fever and spreads from the extremities to cover the entire body except the face. The palms and soles may be bright red and swollen.

French Quarter: --- Several local media personalities including CBS and NBC stormed over to Dawn Beach at the home of Frank Cordes in the hope of speaking with the husband of missing American Leta Lynn Cordes. Frank Cordes grabbed the opportunity to further declare his innocence in the disappearance of his wife, while bashing the Today Newspaper and their reporter David Mc Gregor.
Cordes felt that the Today Newspaper maybe responsible for his arrest namely the reporter who are working closely with the search team and the friends of Leta Lynn Cordes.
In answering questions as to why he was not part of the search that is taking place yesterday and the day before he said he was not invited and did not feel he should be the one to crush their party. Cordes responded to questions surrounding the insurance monies and other allegations towards their uphill marriage. He said he did not have an extra marital relationship neither did he think his wife had one. Asked if he felt his wife ran away he said he did not want to speculate anymore but he did not feel anyone would have survived over a year without their own belongings.
However, Frank Cordes maintained his innocence in the disappearance and possible murder of his wife Leta Lynn Cordes.

He also accused police of doing a lousy job on the investigation and said police did not search his home immediately after he reported his wife was missing. He described the prosecutors as over zealous. He said during his last meeting with Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein on September 4th he made it clear that he was not happy with the way the investigation was going. Cordes said he told Stein in that meeting on more than one occasion they did not conduct a through investigation since no one from the police department never really searched his house or car even though he is considered the prime suspect.

Cordes said there should be more protection laws for person's considered as suspects in any case in the Netherlands Antilles.

It is understood that police only visited the home of the couple three days after she was reported as missing. The first time police laid foot at the house is when they accompanied Elaine Karas. Karas is a long time friend of the family and is the first one to initiate a massive search on the island. Right now Karas and Cordes are not on speaking terms, and she is the one that is spearheading the two day search that is presently taking place on the French side of the island. Cordes said despite his wife's disappearance his wife's relatives are on good terms with him and it's only her friends that have accused him thus far.
The rush to Frank's house came after the police and those in search of the body of the missing woman decided to bar the media from the locations where the search was taking place yesterday morning. It is understood that the media frenzy on the first day of the search distracted the search team. While the investigating officers namely the RST prefers to remain discreet in their operations as they try to protect their identity.

The team focused mainly on the end of Coconut Grove and that the back of the Mac Carter residence in Baie de L'Embouchure better known as Lameshot. An area that is often frequented by local fishermen and one of the places that is known for disposal of dead bodies. Some years ago passersby found the body of Fanella Duzong a young woman who was murdered by unknown persons. It is also understood that other dead bodies were recovered in that area years ago including the body of a metropolitan man whose scooter and other personal items was stolen from him.

Even though St. Martin/ St. Maarten is a small island the amount of unsolved murders on both sides of the island is alarming. With a quick flashback one can quickly remember murder victims Brenda Azile whose decomposed body was found in Oyster Pond, 11 years ago, Fanella Dunzong, and Angelique Chauvire whose mutilated body was found in Dawn Beach; to date police on either side was not able to bring those responsible for the murder of these three young women to justice. Just last year there were 13 murders on the Dutch side while at least eight of them are unsolved.

While the search is expected to come to an end with the Police and the Security companies that have volunteered to search for the missing woman. The Americans who wound be on the island for the rest of the week plans to continue searching for their friend. Elaine Karas and Cary Honstein told reporters yesterday they would continue looking in areas they believe can yield something positive. They said they would be using the cadaver dogs they brought in with them. The two women insisted that they want to find the body so that they can give the woman a decent burial, while their biggest hope is for authorities to find evidence to bring the culprit or culprits to justice.
Karas and Honstein believed police handled the case professionally and that they really do not have much to work with. Even though there maybe a lot it is all circumstantial.

Late yesterday afternoon the dogs gave the searchers a few more hints which made them stayed on later than expected but no body was found.

Caribbean Net News

PARIS, France (Reuters): French President Nicholas Sarkozy will try this week to defuse protests against his economic plans but talks with unions will be tough with unemployment rising, growth tumbling and Caribbean unrest threatening to spread.

More than a million people took to the streets across France two weeks ago in protest at Sarkozy's policies, demanding pay rises and protection for jobs in the face of the downturn, and trade unions have penciled in another protest next month.
Sarkozy's 26 billion euro ($33.6 billion) stimulus plan has focused on public spending projects such as building roads and modernizing rail links rather than helping consumers directly. Unions and the political left have called on him to change tack.

A television appearance after the protests, intended to allay public fears, only weakened Sarkozy's support further. He will head into a meeting with unions on Wednesday under pressure to address their concerns, but room for maneuver is limited.

"The outcome of my five-year term is at stake," newspaper Le Figaro, which is close to Sarkozy, quoted him as telling advisers in its Saturday edition.

French gross domestic product fell 1.2 percent in the last three months of 2008, its biggest drop in 34 years, as exports fell and retailers reduced their stock, and unemployment in December was 11 percent higher than a year earlier.

Increasing the pressure on Sarkozy before Wednesday's "social summit," the opposition Socialists have called for a 1 percentage point cut in value-added tax and a 3 percent rise in the minimum wage to give a boost to consumer spending.

"France is the only country not to act massively and immediately in the direction of purchasing power, while a consensus has been established by economists on the need for such measures alongside those in favor of investment," prominent Socialist Dider Migaud said last week.

Britain has cut its value-added tax by 2 percentage points but Sarkozy lambasted the move in his television address, saying it "brought absolutely no progress," angering Downing Street.

Sarkozy has also said it is only worth increasing France's public debt for stimulus measures that amount to investments for the future rather than funding consumer spending, even though that is traditionally the main driver of French growth.

He is likely to cite one of the few bright spots in last week's GDP figures in his defense -- household consumption rose 0.5 percent in the last three months of 2008, suggesting that consumers did not need further encouragement to keep spending.

But that is unlikely to sway protesters in the French Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique which have been crippled by strikers demanding pay rises and lower food prices.

Unions and associations began the protest in Guadeloupe on January 20 demanding a 200 euro monthly rise for low-wage workers. The protest has since spread to Martinique and, to a more limited extent, the Indian Ocean island of Reunion, and there are fears that it could spread to mainland France.

An IFOP poll for regional newspaper Sud-Ouest published on Saturday found 63 percent of respondents believed similar protests could soon take place on the mainland.

With Sarkozy so far unwilling to meet national unions' demands on boosting consumer spending, there is little obvious room for an agreement to avert further protests.

Le Figaro said Sarkozy could announce proposals before Wednesday's meeting, but did not say what they might be, and some analysts said concessions may soon become necessary.

"If household demand were to weaken, we would be on the brink of recession. In those conditions, it is hard to imagine not providing a boost, targeting the households that are most likely to spend," said Alexander Law, chief economist at research institute Xerfi.

CLAYTON FLORENT, Guadeloupe Correspondent
Negotiations have been suspended until Monday in the general strike, which has crippled Guadeloupe for the past 31 days.

After meeting with executive presidents and parliamentarians of the Overseas Departments Thursday evening, French President, Nicolas Sarkozy, broke his silence by announcing a 580 million euro-purse to the Overseas Departments. This, he said, will go a long way in alleviating the poor living conditions in the Departments.

The striking unions, Employers Federation, the Prefect and the two mediators met Friday afternoon to begin negotiations on the proposals made by President Sarkozy, but after about three hours of deliberations, the negotiations were suspended until Monday.

According to the spokesman for the striking unions in Guadeloupe, Elie Domota, the presentation made by President Sarkozy is not clear.

"We have been given new laws, new proposals, and new Ministers; every time a new one comes out, we are told that's the solution to our problems. We are being fooled for the past 50 years; we are not just going to accept the President's words until it is clearly defined and concrete measures are put in place to give us solutions to the problems facing our people," he said, adding that there is a willingness to negotiate, but the strike continues.

Meanwhile, the body of 48-year-old Jacques Bino, the trade unionist who was killed Tuesday, will be exposed Saturday at the Trade Union building in Pointe-a-Pitre before making its way to his birthplace, the northeastern town of Petit-Canal, where he will be buried on Sunday.

Martinique, which is also on strike, is now into its 15th day. The unions and supermarket owners have agreed to lower the price of about 100 items on their shelves, but agreement has not been reached on a raise in salaries.

 

Revelers cruising through the streets yesterday during the grand parade, some seven troops participated in the parade, which turned out to be disappointment to the general population. It is said that the Children's parade was far better than yesterday's parade.

POINTE-A-PITRE, Guadeloupe (AP) - Police have cleared barricades in the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe as talks aimed at ending a 36-day-old general strike continue.
Protesters had planned to use felled trees and overturned cars on Tuesday to block traffic and call attention to soaring living costs.
But French police began clearing the largest barriers before dawn. Dozens of officers in riot gear stood guard in front of a base used by strikers outside Pointe-a-Pitre.
Unions want a 200 euro ($250) a month raise and they are negotiating with business owners and French officials.
The sister island of Martinique also is negotiating with protesters.

Philipsburg:--- Police is now alerting members of the public to look out for some false hundred dollar notes. Police Spokesman Johan Janchi Leonard in his police report said sometime between 11pm on Monday night police were called to the Coliseum Casino where a man was using false US hundred dollar notes at one of the gambling tables.

Leonard said when the pit boss of the Casino told him that the hundred dollar bill was counterfeit he told the pit boss that it was the same money he had received from the casino from earlier winnings. Management of the Casino are looking deeper into this matter due to the fact that they have indeed encounter a large amount of false hundred dollar bills circulating in their casino. The casino player was brought to the station and after taking a statement, he was released. The counterfeit bill was confiscated.

Philipsburg- Over 100 persons - up to and including Wednesday - have heeded the call to visit Youth Health Care (YHC) this week in light of the school mid-term break to update their child(ren's) vaccination status and or records, Head of Section Policy, Epidemiology & Prevention Maria Henry, said.
"Persons have come in to get information about vaccinations and the vaccination schedule. This schedule indicates when a child should get their vaccinations as they get older. A number of children were also vaccinated at the office while others brought in information allowing us to update our vaccination records.
"The administering of the vaccinations is free. There is no charge for children four to 17 years old to be vaccinated at YHC. This vaccination program is sponsored by the Island Government. We would like to thank the parents and the students for making use of this opportunity but it should not stop on Friday," Henry added.
YHC commenced its vaccination outreach program on Monday, February 23 which will conclude on Friday, February 27. Parents can visit the office from 9.00am to 12.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.30pm. The YHC office is located at the Vineyard Office Park Building.
"Parents are free to come into YHC to get information on their child vaccination status and if they allow their children to be vaccinated by their physicians or abroad, then, this information should be brought into YHC so that the vaccination records can be updated," Maria Henry added.
Disease prevention is the key to public health. It is always better to prevent a disease than to treat it.
Vaccines help prevent infectious diseases and save lives. Vaccines are responsible for the control of many infectious diseases such as polio, measles, mumps, rubella and tetanus.
Those requiring further information can call YHC at 542-3553, 542-3003 or 542-2078.

Philipsburg:---National Alliance State Secretary of Health George Pantophlet is extremely concerned about the deplorable and inhumane conditions some or too many people on St. Maarten are living under. He said he visited an apartment recently where the concrete ceiling is falling apart. As explained by the tenant sometimes they are fearful that a piece might fall and cause them serious bodily harm. And some people have been living in these conditions for years now. What makes matters worse is that some landlords refuse to do any repairs to their buildings.
The State Secretary said he do understand that we are living in hard financial times but then some arrangements can be made with the tenant as to how to address the problem. Control is now being exerted specifically on emigrants as to their living conditions before their permits are renewed. My question is what will happen if their living conditions are not suitable. Will they be told to leave the island? I have contact with some of them who are trying to find a more suitable place to live. But with the low wages, high cost of living and high rents this is proving to be extremely difficult. During the recently held island council meeting government acknowledged a shortage of building inspectors and vacancies in the department. The problem in filling these vacancies according to government has to do with the fact that the salary offered for these positions are not encouraging. I don't know what the salary scale is for these functions but I suggest that what cannot be paid in salary should be offered in benefits. I suggest government to start by hiring them on a contractual basis. I am almost sure they would work for half or one third of what is being paid for technical assistance or maybe not. But we want to become a country and being a country will costs us. In closing all of us know that inhumane living conditions can cause serious health problems. Let us address this problem before it becomes an epidemic.

Marigot: --- Despite the hard economic crisis St. Maarten/ St. Martin is making sure they do what is necessary to continue its marketing plans. In so doing the St. Maarten Trade Association launched the 8th annual St. Maarten Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART).
For the first time the two day event will be held on the French side of the island, thanks to Radisson who joined forces with the hotel associations to make the event possible.

Officials representing both sides' governments in the persons of Ida Zin Ka Ieu President of the French Tourist Office and Regina Labbega from the Dutch Tourist Office inked the contract which guarantees the financing of the project. While Philippe Thevenet signed for the French Hotel Association and Keith Graham on behalf of the SHTA. Zin Ka Ieu said the both tourist offices have committed to 40% of the expenses while the Hotel Associations will cover 10% each. The contract signed yesterday is something that has to be done biannually a means of securing its financing.

Project Manager of SMART Robert Dubourcq said that the island cannot afford to stop its marketing plans even though there is a crisis. The tradeshow is to make sure the island gets the necessary coverage overseas. Suppliers and buyers as well as hoteliers would be visiting the island to take part in business meetings during tabletop setups. Also to be provided are workshops and trainings for smaller businesses. He said last year there was 55 tabletops meetings but this year they are expecting at least 65 of those meetings which would take place during the first day of the tradeshow.

Visitors for the two days will have the opportunity to see what both sides of the island offers since both sides have its uniqueness. Already there are 14 participants who have booked during the pre marketing plan which began in January. Dubourcq said the main objective this year to attract more partners from Europe. He said they have been trying to do just that over the years but somehow they always missed the boat. However, with Radisson on board this was made easier. He already there is one new wholesaler who booked for the event.
Regina Labega in her remarks said she is excited to the fact that the event is being hosted on the French side an opportunity for those coming to the island to see the entire island as well as experiencing the goods and services that are offered.

President of the French Tourist Office Ida Zin Ka Ieu confirmed that the French side has recommenced their marketing in the United States of America. She said one of the main things to keep in mind is that St. Maarten/ St. Martin is one destination even though the two sides have different assets. She assured that whatever needs to be done in the interest of the island will be done with joint and closer cooperation with the two sides. She said in the past St. Maarten/St. Martin has worked intelligently and they would continue working in that manner in the hopes of preserving the interest of the island and its people who are investing in the island.

She said the French side never stopped the marketing in New York but styles have been changed. Zin Ka Ieu said she just returned from Florida where they are hosting bliss. The Tourist Office President said that even though the Dutch side was not in Florida they were represented because St. Maarten/ St. Martin are one island. Zin ka Ieu said that people has to use the marketing strategies as a force to fully represent St. Maarten/ St. Martin and not as a weakness. She said when one works with intelligent people then intelligent agreements are being made.
General Manager of the Radisson Jeff Lesker said they are grateful they were given this opportunity to showcase their new property. He applauded the SHTA and the other stakeholders for their vision and determination in marketing the island. He said while it is perceived that there are less people travelling but felt that the ground work has to be done.

Marigot:--- Since January 20, 2009, on the initiative of a collective (LIYANNAJ KONT PROFITATION: LKP) of about fifty trade-unions and cultural organizations, the people of Guadeloupe has initiated a movement.
This Collective raises basic problems which are at the origin of the suffering, the distress, the discomfort and the identity and societal crisis which affect not only Guadeloupe but all overseas French territories and consequently St-Martin. The massive support of the people of Guadeloupe is admirable.
The claims of this collective, essentially, include those affecting our territory, particularly as regards the fight against the high cost of living and the improvement of the purchasing power, the claiming means for a better and more appropriate Education, issues regarding health and the like and more provisions for public services, but also a priority for local employment, the need for privileging the local companies (small shopkeepers, craftsmen...). These claims also dealt with the urgency to privilege a true endogenous development. In our capacity as a group of elected officials within the Territorial Council of St-Martin and in the name of the Saint-Martin people, we bring a fraternal and massive support to the people of Guadeloupe.

Through our respective battles we advance the general cause of our territories. It began with the Reunion Island, was then followed by Guyana, today it is Guadeloupe's turn to speak out. By means of these movements, the emphasis has been upon the basic problems which are presented and the legitimate claims for which one demands serious attention and real appropriate solutions; the time for surface repair is over.
By our statutory evolution within the framework of article 74 of the French constitution, we have lead the way on a very important subject: the nature of our relationship with France and the granting of our autonomy. This road remains strewn with obstacles because the State never stops reconsidering its primary word and engagements (refusal to compensate for the resources lost due to the suppression of the benefit enjoyed from the shared "octroi de mer", reconsideration of its position on making pro visions for the territories to each have a representative in Parliament in Paris, etc...).
Our territories can no longer continue to ignore their geographical, cultural and identity reality by hiding behind legal provisions. The handling of the identity and societal crisis which characterizes all of our territories becomes as urgent today as the need to give attention to the economic crisis because our dignity hinges on them both.

The Movement LIYANNAJ KONT PROFITATION: LKP brings the evident proof that in our territories the emergence of a "structured civil society" is necessary because it gives a new meaning to participative democracy. This civil society must be heard as being an essential link which best expresses itself today from the "streets", most effective mode of expression of direct democracy that the State can no longer ignore.
"Sovereignty cannot be represented, for the same reason it cannot be alienated; it consists primarily in the general will and the will cannot be represented; it is the same or it is different; it knows no medium. Thus, the deputies of the people are not and cannot be the representatives of the people, they are only commissioners; (...). Any law that the People would not have personally ratified is null...."

"Non Governmental organizations wishing to garner the support of businesses must have a solid strategic plan, deliverables and a proper balance sheet," Managing Director of the Ikemba African Art Gallery, Michael Maghiro told the gathering of persons turning out to witness the official; launch of the Pastor Desmond Herbert Foundation and Sow a Seed Thanksgiving service.

The event was held last Wednesday, at Honey Crunch Bakery and Deli situated on the By Road, St Kitts.

A number of persons were in attendance among them being Minister of Social Development, the Hon. Dr Earl Asim Martin, Constituency One Representative for The Peoples Action Movement, Glenroy Blanchett, Ann Wigley and members of the Herbert family.

Maghiro noted that he is aroused and pleased to see the giant step that Pastor Desmond is making aptly putting it, "placed his hands into his pockets so as to get the foundation off the ground." Michael who is a Nigerian national living and working in St Maarten where he has a major business made a significant donation to the foundation while committing to make regular donations so as to aid in the foundation's work.

Pastor Herbert responding on behalf of the many persons who he pointed out volunteered their services to the foundation in establishing it said that he was thankful. He noted that persons can assist with the growth and development of the foundation noting that they can give in cash, kind or service.

Maghiro who himself executes similar feeding programme in St Marten while he is a major contributor to a number of NGO's praised the foundation's executives for its prudent management thus far, accountability and vision which has helped to guarantee that the foundation begins to attract attention which he said will rebound into support.

"Once business begins to take note of what is happening then they would be willing and eager to assist and I am glad that the foundation while officially launching today has been around for some months doing its work quietly," he said.

He commended Pastor Herbert and his team for possessing the foresight and leadership which he said will help in keeping the foundation growing and expanding. "I have seen a number of foundations and organizations being established where there are no clear vision and passion as to what direction the founders want it t go but fortunately this foundation today is different as there is not only a clear vision but there is also an undying passion which will help it over the bumps in life," Maghiro said.

The St Maarten based businessman added that the development and growth of any organizations depends heavily on those that are leading it, as without proper leadership there will be no success. He pointed out that with the current global recession and the challenges faced by many economies it has forced business entities to be very sensible with their investments.

"I can tell you as a businessman that you now have to put your money where it can have a multiplying effect and offers significant mileage as that is what helps in keeping us going." He further stated that apart from the aforementioned features, the Pastor Desmond Herbert Foundation is the only Christian related foundation that has sought to provide a progress and other reports to its donors and sponsors at the end of every project or programme.

He urged members and potential members of the foundation to not only to be good ambassadors for Jesus Christ, but also to those who will be yearning to garner this assistance and help. "Remember that you must always see your role as volunteers as too many times people create the impression that they are volunteering but in the end still looks for payment".

Another point of note that Michael Maghiro mentioned was that sponsors are more interested in organizations who they can feel very confident and comfortable about being associated with without the fear of negative comments or consequences, but who can be more of a positive influence to the communities and people that they serve.

Philipsburg: --- The department of labor has put in place a new committee to deal with all appeals on working permits says commissioner of labor Sarah Wescot Williams. She said the committee has already worked off the backlog up to October last year.
The commissioner said since then she is sure the committee has dealt with other appeals. Persons who are not happy with the decision of the executive council on their request for a labor permit can appeal that decision with the new appeals committee which replaces the previous one.

Yet another road accident on Link One Yesterday so far police has not issued a report on the case.

A minor car accident today on the L.B Scot road today in the vicinity of the bridge leading into Saunders. A Toyota car license plate 617 ZAX 971 hit the rear of a Suzuki jeep licence plate M 4183.

A WHITE HYUNDAI SONATA THAT WAS STOLEN A FEW DAYS AGO WAS RECOVERED ON CAMILLIA ROAD IN BETTY ESTATE. AT 2 PM ON SATURDAY THE CAR LISCENCE PLATE R 1231 WAS TOWED AWAY IN THE PRESENCE OF THE POLICE.

Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Civil Servants Union William Reed expressed his dissatisfaction at the way Minister of Constitutional and Internal Affairs Roland Duncan is handling the dispute between the Minister of Finance Ersilla De Lannoy and his members at the office of the Inspectorate of Taxes.

The Finance Minister Ersilla De Lannoy in a statement had described the employees of the Tax office as "lazy and as a result their approach to work needs much to be desired."
Reed and Duncan apparently had "a heated exchange of words" at the beginning of the meeting because according to Reed, the Minister was sent to represent St. Maarten at the Federal level and he contended that all "politics are local." Response to Reed Duncan said that as the Minister of Internal Affairs, he cannot go outside of the scope of his ministry since he cannot dictate to the Minister of Finance. He said my job is not to tell another Minister how to do his job and what to say.

Reed stressed that Duncan has two Senators who are his bosses and as a result he could have challenged the situation through them and let them deal with the Minister of Finance. The union leader felt that Duncan was not proactive enough on the issues at hand.
Reed added that a "whole tongue lashing" that the Minister gave to members of his organization on St. Maarten, she would have never had done so in Curacao since her votes comes from that island, he said. He felt that the Minister has no regard for the people of St. Maarten.

He said that the insults meted out to his members by the Minister of Finance "lives the life of its own," especially when dealing with a sensitive area such as the tax office. He indicated that in cases such as these some members of the community will believe her and some may not.
Furthermore the matter could be counterproductive thus he informed Duncan that he was not at all happy with the situation. Reed said his intentions are to take the Minister to court since he already made contact with an attorney at law.
Reed said when the Minister was notified of the legal procedures she acted out of order by attacking the entire staff of the tax office. He felt that the comments made by the Minister was unnecessary and could have been avoided.

The Union leader said that his members at the Tax Office on St. Maarten has been abused and is understaffed and even a copier that they had requested was refused. He added that he does not understand how the Minister of Finance could under these circumstances who work under these conditions decide that they are not producing and as a result it is not fair, said Reed.

Philipsburg: -- Representing the executive council on the draft Kingdom Laws which was before the island council for its approval was leader of Government Sarah Wescot Williams. Williams began the procedures by explaining the draft Kingdom Law on the council regulating law and order. A procedure that has to take place prior to these Kingdom Laws goes before the Kingdom Council of Ministers in The Hague.
Wescot Williams said the draft on the council is suppose to oversee the quality of all parts of the justice chain as well as cooperation between the countries of Curacao, St. Maarten and the Netherlands in the area of justice.

She said the draft consensus Kingdom Law on council on law and order was agreed to on October 1st 2008, where it was established that the council would also oversee justice tasks of the coast guard.
This council would also have to carry out its duties in St. Maarten, Curacao and the BES islands. The draft she said was deliberated and amended on numerous occasions in the so-called PRRC who also approved the law prior to it been sent to the island council.

During yesterday's preceding several questions was posed to the island leader by Island councilman Rudolph Samuel concerning the council that would be regulating this law. Samuel said the law is not only important but very serious. He said because of the seriousness of these laws then it is vital that the people of St. Maarten be given additional information on the implications of these laws. He suggested that a copy of the laws be placed at the library so that the people can get access for perusals. Another concern for Samuel is what would be cost of managing the council. Something that is not yet finalized said Wescot Williams in her response however she said that has to be done so that the expenses can be taken up on Country St. Maarten budget.
Wescot Williams agreed that the law is of great importance and while the law would be on the government's websites she said it would be a good idea to place it at the library in both languages. She acknowledged that the government websites are under reconstruction since they want to make the site more accessible as well as more space for documentation.

Also approved yesterday is the Consensus Kingdom law on the Police of Curacao, St. Maarten, Bonaire, Saba and Eustatius. Wescot Williams in her presentation said the police law was the most hotly discussed Kingdom laws. She said it only after a lot of negotiations this law was approved by the PRRC. Some of the questions she said arise concerning amendments of these laws.
The said the agreement on this particular law was reached on a political level after being challenged several times. One of these biggest hurdles she said was the joint services for the police. She said this particular article was taken out for deliberation. This law she said is applicable to Curacao, St. Maarten and the BES islands which also stems from the November 2 2006 agreement. It has been agreed that each of the islands will have their separate police forces.
The island leader also gave basic break down on the articles of the police law. One of the highlights of this law regards the make of the force which would have a police chief and their authorities and to whom they are accountable.

Councilman Samuel in questioning the law said he wants to know what is St. Maarten's specific task on the development of the local police force? Furthermore he wants to know how far is the island government in fulfilling its requirement on this specific law.
Wescot Williams in her brief response said that it extremely important for the island council members to take note on the documents that were submitted to them since all the necessary is attached. She also said that there are going to be individual workgroups to guide the process in the police organization.

The island leader said Attorney at Law Richard Gibson Sr. has been tasked with the justice related matters for country St. Maarten. She said Gibson has been working tireless hours to make sure everything is in place while he has been holding countless meetings with the Minister of Justice. She said that Gibson is the chairman of St. Maarten workgroup reason why he is pulling the justice cart.
Peeved at the response Samuel said that when the island council members posed questions to the executive council is not that they don't know the answers. He said the reason behind the questioning is to give the listening public the opportunity to have more information on their country and its laws. The councilman also wanted to know if the committee that is working on the police law has a deadline since far too often it is said the date is put off due to the justice chain.

Also debated before it was also unanimously approved is the Consensus Kingdom Law on the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles.
Wescot Williams said one could approve all the laws but if they do not the approve the proposal to change charter with the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles then it would be a waste of time. She said none of the above laws would be able to take effect unless St. Maarten is able to attain its country status.

When this law is approved then it would pave the way for two other countries which is St. Maarten and Curacao as well as public entity.

Chief Executive Officer of NAGICO Insurances, the region's arguably leading insurance company, Imran Mc Sood Amjad told a large gathering of agents and staff that growth and development opportunities in the insurance sector particularly in the Caribbean will continue to net high returns despite the economic difficulties that many countries are faced with.

According to Mc Sood who has been credited for taking NAGICO Insurances from a 75,000 company in 1981 to some 700 million United States dollars worth in 2008 that the insurance sector is vitally important to the Caribbean and more in particular to the Netherlands Antilles's economy and several opportunities continues to exist in the sector.

He told the 200 odd gathering that assembled at the West Inn Hotel in St Maarten that based on research done by the wizard minds within the company that Insurance will net the highest returns as there continues to be several fly by night companies that has been popping up their heads. "There are those that will promise you the pie that is not in their hands but beware of them s with NAGICO we give you the pie in the hand," he said.

Mc Sood who has been at the helm of the company since its establishment some 27 years ago said the challenges encountered this year when a number of prices spiraled engendered a "renewed focus on the insurance sector."

He said that his company continues to devise means and ways in incorporating "a family community oriented type of insurances" side by side involving its agents and staff so as to continue reaping success adding that plans are in train to take insurance to yet another level within the region.

"We are known at NAGICO to create opportunities and increased benefits for our customers as we strongly believes in good customer service therefore NAGICO continues to look for opportunities so as to enhance the services that we provide," the CEO said. He also told those gathered for his company's annual Christmas dinner that NAGICO Insurances is unique because in the very near future it will reinforced itself as the region's number one insurance company.

‘Generation Reforms'

Mc Sood said that his management tam within the company has been engaged for some time on ‘industry and company reforms' noting that this will help to ensure that the company and its various offices throughout the region remains viable and profitable where "from an unstable macroeconomic situation, triple digit inflation, huge fiscal deficit, huge debt, among others, he explained that many countries and companies within the region has managed to achieve stable macro economic fundamentals."

He said too reforms were also done in infrastructure though "we still have a long way to go, bridges etc. that will support ... investment, education and health care and a number of other things."

The NAGICO CEO declared that his company has reached a stage where it needs to move to another level of reforms "that are more quality, reforms that are more direct," Mc Sood said.

Mc Sood noted that NAGICO Insurances have come a very far way noting that it was because of the enormous contributions of the staff and agents which created the kind of environment that it needed to grow that well. "the staff and agents played a pivotal role in the growth, development and success of this company and for that I say thanks to you all because no company can grow successfully if it doesn't have the support and assistance f its staff and agents first and foremost and its customers ," he stressed.

Alluding to the current financial crisis, Mc Sood said, "We in the Caribbean think that we may not be able to ride it out but let me assure you that if there is one company that has the ability to do so then it is NAGICO Insurances as we are prepared for crisis like these.

This is primarily as a result of the fact that our financial system is essentially sound, we survived several hurricanes that left many still struggling and others too weak to even review but in it all NAGICIO survived as we are not only resilient but we are committed to the task of rebuilding and surviving regardless of the circumstances.

He added that his company has some of the toughest policies, regulations and systems in place that will aid their clients in times when they need them the most. "No company can survive if the customers are not at its heart and therefore we at NAGICO recognized this from day one that is why we have grown to be recognized as accompany that looks out for its clients," Mc Sood noted.

Mc Sood reassured his staff that for this year a number of new and exciting innovations will be done to the company so as to ensure that they are effective and efficient in addressing changing global crisis. "We believe in always being a step above the game so I warm you about the now come companies who will use whatever they can to lure you to them, be careful and alert as they will come with all kinds of promises so as to entice you but we know that they have nothing tangible to offer," he said.

Philipsburg: ---- Commissioner Louis Laviest had his first day in court yesterday afternoon. The commissioner dressed in a grey suit with a white shirt and a blue checkered tie was surrounded by his entire family circle including his staff. The commissioner was charged with fraud, forgery and bribery in relation to his Culture Club fund. Prosecutor Martin Hemlaar represented the prosecution in reading out the charges that are brought against the former labor and social affairs commissioner.

The judge asked Laveist if he had more witnesses to be heard or if he had anything in particular to say about the indictment but Laveist responded with a stern no. The case is now postponed to April 8. Prior to closing the session the judge for the second time asked Laveist for if he had anything to say since he Laveist would not be given a second opportunity to say anything and again the commissioner said no.
His attorney Remko Stomp spoke on behalf of Laveist before the judge ruled that the case is now postponed to April 8.

Outside of the court house Laveist stood with his relatives as they further discuss what took place in the packed court room. During that time several persons from the community came to show support to the embattled commissioner including island council man Petrus Leroy de Weever.
Attorney Stomp told reporters all their witnesses have been heard already and that the defense had been ready to proceed with the case for a long time. He said yesterday's hearing is what can be described as director's hearing which also declared the case open. The case he said can go anywhere from here since both sides can request to hear more witnesses. Stomp said based on the list of charges against his client is a like a circus in his opinion. As for Culture Club he said the commissioner had that foundation long before he became commissioner and the foundation was financing a lot of social projects on St. Maarten.

Philipsburg:---Like many other sectors within the Tourism Industry, the marine sector is feeling the effects of a host of negative pricing and economic factors, both local and global. According to SHTA Director of Marine Trades and SMMTA Board Member, James Roidis, charters have been hit hardest, as can be seen by the almost non-existent transit of yachts in and out of SXM. Charters are the main revenue generators of the yachts, so the decline in this area has created a domino effect. This effect of course leads to decreased spending and yachts returning to both the USA and Europe 2 to 3 months earlier than usual, cutting an already short season in half.
Adding to the effects of the crisis are the drastically increased port fees of the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority, which in most cases were raised by 300% without any warning on January 1st 2008. These fees have placed St. Maarten's port fee pricing in a non competitive disadvantage when compared to the neighboring ports, like: French St. Martin, British Virgin Islands, St. Barths and Antigua. Additionally, the manner in which the fee ordinance is interpreted (weekly billing vs. daily billing) and is collected, adds to the expensiveness of the fees. For example, if a yacht captain uses SXM as a base and goes for 3 day trips during the week to Anguilla, St. Barths and Saba, he/she will pay for 4 weeks even-though they only stayed 4 days! As a result, yachts that usually dock at the marinas in Simpson Bay are now opting to dock at ports on the French side of the island, where fees are rational and reasonable.
Both the SHTA and the SMMTA are extremely concerned by the effect that the slower than usual season is having on the many local service providers. Businesses like: Taxis, local port agencies, restaurants, car rentals, food wholesalers and marine services to name a few are already experiencing a decrease in revenues; and as is the case with the other pillars of the SXM tourism economy, they depend on a strong high season to carry them through the slow and now ever lengthening off season.
Separating the marine sector's 3 main categories in groups, the declines and comments are as follows:
1. Retailers - Revenues are down an average of 25% - Non-local vessels in SXM have declined to levels of more than 20 years ago. Comparative stores in Antigua and Virgin Islands are up in revenue.
2. Marinas - Revenues are down an average of 20% - Revenue and occupancy percentage was on par with last season until beginning January 2009, after which it has dropped off significantly. A shorter and abruptly ending high season is predicted.
3. Services - Revenues are down an average of 30% - December 2008 was on par with December 2007, but has now dropped off significantly. Back order jobs are no longer existent and yachts are now choosing to repair small projects rather than replacing a/o take on larger jobs as was the case in past years.

Le Gallion: --- The friends of Leta Lynn Cordes the Mission Viejo woman who disappeared on St. Maarten on the night of January 11 2008 is now conducting yet another search in the hope of finding her body.
The search which began early yesterday morning around the Le Gallion Beach was done by the Sherriff and Checkmate Security including manpower from the United States, the Voluntary Korps, the RST and the local police. On the scene was the fire department that transported the dingy that was in the pond with one of the cadaver dogs.
Late yesterday afternoon the friends and search team had their hopes up when the cadaver dogs gave them at least two hints. The team immediately alerted the RST who is over the search who immediately showed up and cordoned the area with a human chain. The RST officers and a few persons who took part in the search from the Voluntary Korps began digging to see if they would find the body of Leta Lynn or someone else that might have gone missing. The two friends Cary and Elaine became very emotional as they look from a distance as the men in blue dug the sand where the first hint was given. However, before they knew it the search was called off since nothing substantial was found.
The gendarmes who are cooperating fully with the search were not present but they were making spot checks throughout the day. Searchers have at least three cadaver dogs as they comb through the ponds as well as the mangrove in the immediate area. Also on site is the crew from the CBS (48 hours) who were filming as the searchers walked through the area. Good to note while this search is ongoing the husband of Leta Lynn Cordes who still remains a suspect in the case was nowhere around the search team. Instead he brought in a television crew from NBC dateline who is also trying to secure an interview with the friends. During the afternoon hours the NBC crew was also there to see what police and other volunteers are doing to find closer in the case.
Speaking to SMN News was Elaine Karas, Cary Honstein and Bobby Hargis who form part of the search team. Karas said she has been friends with Leta Cordes since she was 14 years old and she knows some of the things her friend who is now missing would do and not do. The purpose of this fourth search she said is to make sure they can take the body back home where a proper funeral would be conducted as well as to seek justice in the case. While the family is not in close contact with Leta's only son Rory Bryant the friends wants to make sure the 30 year old man whom they said is very much distraught with the ordeal get some closer.
Karas said her friend Leta was indeed drinking the day she disappeared but felt the reason behind her drinking was because she had lost two brothers while her mother was ailing. She said the woman did not receive any kind of emotional support from her husband at the time which pushed her to alcohol. "If in fact Leta was drinking it was because she was numbing herself from her pains."
The friends said they know the Cordes family very well since they have been travelling for the past 17 years together. However, since Leta disappeared the friendship they said is no longer good.
Asked if she was a compulsive gambler her friend Cary said Leta did not have an addiction to gambling instead she did. "Leta would go to the casino with a few hundred dollars while I used to take a few thousands."
Asked if she knew about the Cordes marital problems Elaine said Frank was not paying much attention to his wife since he was busy with work and focused on building his house on St. Maarten and not paying much attention to her emotional needs. The woman said Frank Cordes was not giving his wife the support she needed during a crisis in her opinion.
Furthermore, Bobby Hargis confirmed that on the night Leta disappeared she called him at 10:30 pm to talk about the problems she had that day. That night Leta and her husband had a heated argument over monies for her to go over to the Westin casino to gamble while earlier that day they argued on Grand Case Beach, where Leta told Frank she was going to seek a divorce and demand half of their wealth. The missing woman had also promised to call back her brother that night but that never happened.
Even though the woman had made these threats in the past in the end she was becoming more serious on what to do says Elaine. Elaine said Leta Lynn was a very private woman but the same day she disappeared she called someone she met on the island and expressed herself concerning the problems she was having in her marriage. "That day January 11 was not a good day for the couple since they fought during the day as well as that night. Something which caused Frank Cordes to lock his wife out of the house even when she was under the influence.
Asked why she believed Frank Cordes has something to do with her best friend disappearance Elaine said that she came to St. Maarten 48 hours after she heard her friend went missing. The woman said she went to the Cordes house in the company of three police officers and immediately after she found that Frank Cordes were having inconsistent stories. Both Cary and Elaine said that the man's behavior is what made them concerned. "Frank sent us some emails and he made some comments that made us very much uncomfortable".
One of the inconsistencies the women said is that their friend Leta never drove on St. Maarten. They said the woman was afraid of driving on St. Maarten so the fact that Frank said she asked for the keys was a lie. They also don't believe the woman ever got far away from the home that night because she would not have walked down to Westin at that hour of the night.
Ever since January 11 2008, police on Dutch St. Maarten held several searches in the hope of finding the woman but to date they have not come up with anything.
The friends said they are very satisfied with the police and they way they have conducted the investigation. Frank Cordes was arrested in October 2008 where he spent over three months in pre-trial detention. He was released by the investigating judge on the request of the prosecutor's office for the lack of evidence. However, Frank Cordes still remains a suspect in the disappearance of his wife. Elaine Karas said that the prosecutor's office acted smartly by not taking the case to court with only circumstantial evidence. "While we believe the police has a lot on the case they still do not have a body. They would indeed have a hard time proving their case in court and we do not want the prosecutor or the police to gamble with this case. It's better to wait and see if the body would be found." the two women said.
The search team plans to continue their search today at different locations. Asked why the Le Galleon Beach was chosen the team said that they worked with several tips and leads which narrowed them down to that area.

About Frank and Leta Lynn Cordes.

Frank Cordes a German went to the United States at age 18. He met Leta Lynn Cordes at age 19 while she was already 27 years old and had her son Rory. The two got married shortly after since Frank's visa would have expired. The couple who were not at all in love in the beginning worked on their animation business which became very successful.

Philipsburg:-- The Executive Council on Tuesday approved the MOU that will now be signed between the Island Government and representatives of the private sector. Additionally, the Executive Council also established the date for the Economic Summit and the presentation by President of the Central Bank Mr. E. Tromp.

Mr. Tromp's public presentation will be held on Wednesday, March 4 followed by an all-day Economic Summit on Thursday, March 5. This vital summit is being held to assess the actual situation of the island's economy and to gather recommendations for stimulus and possible additional ways to mitigate the affects on St. Maarten of the world wide financial crisis.

In light of this, the Island Government and private sector are pledging their commitment to work collectively where feasible. This commitment has been represented in the form of a MOU between the Island Government and representatives of the private sector.

The private sector will be represented by the Chamber of Commerce, who along with government is the driving force and initiator of the summit. Also to take part in the summit will be the SHTA and unions. The Island Government will be represented by the Commissioner of Economic Affairs and relevant advisors. A tentative date of Monday, February 23 has been designated for the MOU signing.

"We are all partners and as such should work closely together in St. Maarten's best interest. I welcome the cooperation from the Chamber in particular. Many financial experts and economists now agree that the financial situation world-wide will probably become more challenging before we see any sound improvements. St. Maarten is obviously not immune to the financial crisis. In depth discussion and concrete recommendations are needed to mitigate the affects on St. Maarten," the Commissioner said.

Today the "Care" teachers of the various VSBO schools received an official Certificate "Care" conducted by Fundashon pa Inovashon di Ensenansa na Korsou (FIDE).

Over the past 13 months, they have received 8 weeks of intensive training to advance their expertise and capability related to the subject Care, which is part of the VSBO sector program.

Based on an assessment, done in September 2007, FIDE compiled a specific practical training as a follow up to the pedagogical-didactical training that the VSBO teachers had already received in March 2007.

Through this training the "Care" teachers have become knowledgeable in creating a different classroom environment with workstations and transfer information to their students by formulating practical individual- and group assignments.

The initiative of the FIDE training is funded by USONA as part of the implementation of the project plan VSBO, Sint Maarten.

Philipsburg:--- The search team that arrived on the island last week to conduct searches for missing American Leta Lynn Cordes is now on standby as the investigators peruse the case.
Earlier in the week the team of Americans as well as volunteers from the Sheriff Security and Checkmate conducted two days of major searches on the French side of the island. Those searches were focused on Le Galleon Beach and Baie de L'Embouchure. Despite the cadaver dogs located some hot spots nothing substantial was recovered except a sheet that had blood on it. Authorities have taken that sheet to conduct some forensic analysis to see if the bloody sheet would take them any closer in solving the case.
On Tuesday local reporters went over to the home of Frank Cordes, the husband of the missing woman to secure an interview.
The team of reporters from three of the leading news agencies namely the Daily Herald, AVS News and the Today Newspaper managed to get that interview, half on tape while the other half off the record.

SMN News has been reliably informed that the investigators who are now handling the case spoke to at least one of the reporters in an effort to get the off the record information. Arts Video Studio Reporter Lisa Brown Mac Kay was questioned by the authorities yesterday, while the authorities also requested the taped interview from Arts Video Studio which was delivered to them.

In the meantime, friend of the missing woman Elaine Karas told SMN News that they revisited some of the hotspots yesterday to make sure they did not miss anything. Now that is over they are waiting on the authorities to guide them to other areas where more searches would be conducted.

Philipsburg----Seeing that Valentine's Day was right around the corner, the Social Committee of the St. Maarten Medical Center organized a breakfast for the staff last week Friday, and also gave out boxes of chocolate to them.
Since the St. Maarten Medical Center is the [RED] business for the month of February, and it is the month that Valentine's Day is celebrated, they saw it fit to organize the breakfast. These pictures are highlights of last week's events.

PETIT-CANAL, Guadeloupe -- About 3,000 mourners on Sunday turned the funeral for a labor-union activist killed in Guadeloupe into a political demonstration, calling out for higher wages and respect from the French government.
People clad mostly in white packed a gymnasium in the cane-growing area of Petit-Canal to hear poems about struggle and songs in homage to Jacques Bino, the labor-union activist shot to death last week in the French overseas department, apparently by rioting youths.
Some of the participants wore T-shirts emblazoned with images of Bino, who was killed as he drove home from a meeting with the organizers of protests that have paralyzed the French island for more than a month. His body was displayed in an open casket for two days.

"We are saddened, but we will continue the fight," Guadeloupe protest leader Elie Domota told mourners in a speech.
In the crowd, Adele Goram, an islander from a nearby town, said she attended the ceremony for Bino because she wanted Paris to "respect" Guadeloupe, a French overseas possession with deep economic and social disparities.
The strike by workers demanding a higher wages in Guadeloupe began in late January and has been marked by resentment of the tiny elite who control the island's economy. Strikes have spread to neighboring Martinique.
The Sunday ceremony in Petit-Canal attracted Segolene Royal, former presidential candidate for the French Socialist Party. She sat in the crowd but did not speak.
Meanwhile, an agreement between Guadeloupe's employers and its striking workers is likely not imminent, the head of France's employers' federation said Sunday.
Federation chief Laurence Parisot warned that talks are "still very complex," suggesting an end to the standoff might not be around the corner.
"The latest news that I received last night demonstrated that we were perhaps not that near a deal," Parisot told Europe-1 radio in an interview Sunday.
Tensions in Guadeloupe have largely died down after a televised address Thursday by French President Nicolas Sarkozy, who announced a euro580 million ($730 million) financial package to help development in France's overseas regions.
French officials have suggested an accord that would end the standoff was on the horizon, but negotiations have proven slow.
ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER JENNY BARCHFIELD CONTRIBUTED TO THIS REPORT FROM PARIS.

PHILIPSBURG- Commissioner of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus, is calling on parents and guardians to make use of the mid-term break from school to update their child(ren's) vaccination status and or the records of Youth Health Care (YHC).
YHC will be commencing a vaccination outreach program for the mid-term break starting on Monday, February 23 to Friday, February 27 starting at 9.00am to 12.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.30pm.
Parents can visit the YHC at the Vineyard Office Park Building.
Disease prevention is the key to public health. It is always better to prevent a disease than to treat it. Vaccines prevent disease in the people who receive them and protect those who come into contact with unvaccinated individuals.
Vaccines help prevent infectious diseases and save lives. Vaccines are responsible for the control of many infectious diseases that were once common around the globe such as polio, measles, diphtheria, rubella, mumps, rubella and tetanus. Many countries have taken action to protect their children because they are aware vaccine-preventable diseases have a costly impact on a community, resulting in doctor's visits, hospitalizations, and premature deaths. Sick children can also cause parents to lose time from work.
If a child is not vaccinated and is exposed to a disease germ, the child's body may not be strong enough to fight the disease. Before vaccines, many children died from diseases that vaccines now prevent, such as whooping cough, measles, and polio. Those same germs exist today, but babies are now protected by vaccines, and the disease is not seen as often.
"Immunizing individual children helps to protect the health of our community. A measles outbreak in Germany highlighted the need for vaccination reminders and better information for parents, after a study showed that at least 80 per cent of 614 cases in Duisburg in 2006 involved people who have not been vaccinated according to research published by the World Health Organization.
"Measles still cause an estimated 197,000 deaths each year around the world, the majority of them children under the age of five. Measles is a highly contagious disease. Even healthy and well-nourished children, if unvaccinated, are at risk of measles and its complications such as pneumonia. This is an opportunity to check your child's vaccination status, make use it," Commissioner of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus told the Government Information Service (GIS).
Those requiring further information can call YHC at 542-3553, 542-3003 or 542-2078.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Leader of the National Alliance, island council member and senator William Marlin has confirmed that the island council meeting that was called by the National Alliance faction last week will take place today.
The two agenda points he said are government's policy on the issuance of building permits and the economic situation of the island.
The meeting which had to be postponed due to the lack of quorum since the members of the Democratic Party did not show up was rescheduled by the Chairman of the island council Franklyn Richards.
Marlin had said last week that his faction was contemplating withdrawing the meeting since had to be off island attending to parliamentary meetings. During a telephone interview yesterday from Curacao he said the meeting would go on but could not confirm if all members of his faction would be present to make their case.
Last week Marlin lambasted the leader of the Democratic Party for creating a smoke screen to hide the internal problems of her party while failing to carry out the duties of the people. He said the island leader had falsely accused the chairman of the island council whom she said was in cahoots with the National Alliance to call meetings when the DP faction is not on island.
Last week when the island council meeting was called commissioner of public works Theo Heyliger was in the AC Wathey Legislative hall but refused to sign in to form a quorum. One of the agenda points of that meeting falls directly under the commissioner in question. Something Marlin rose during his press statement shortly after the meeting was postponed.

Marlin had said it is evident that the island government has internal problems and they don't know how to deal with the issues at hand.
He said the Democratic Party has problems with the commissioner of economic affairs whom he said is continuing to pressure government to implement certain policies.
Marlin said during the last island council meeting there was an agenda point to amend the business license ordinance which the commissioner in charge wants on the floor of the island council. He said when this point was finally on the agenda point the meeting was abruptly adjourned.

Marlin explained that while the chairman claimed the meeting was adjourned to give members of the island council the opportunity to go to a funeral the fact of the matter that was not the case. He said later the members of the island council received a letter telling them that them that the executive council had decided to withdraw that agenda point.
He said this is clear indication that the DP are having internal problems and if they are not willing to talk about those problems then that is their right but they should not twist matters which would make it appear as if it's the Lt. Governor and the National Alliance that are playing games.

Philipsburg:--- Island Councilman Frans Richardson made sure he suggested that a green zone be built in Philipsburg. He said that he knows the commissioner of Public Works Theo Heyliger loves to plant trees. Richardson said it has been four years now since the former commissioner of Public Works hit down an old building in Philipsburg next to CIB claiming that they would be building a parking lot there.
He said to date that no parking is built and instead of having a waste piece property the island government should shift some of its monies and purchase that property and make sure they build a green zone in Philipsburg which is already congested with concrete jungles. Richardson said far too long the government is developing and they have forgotten to take care of their people and believes a park with some trees and beautiful benches would serve the children of Philipsburg well.

Bonaire:--Despite the small size of our island, it appears that the Bonaire Jazz Foundation will once again be successful in organizing the 2009 Jazz Festival which will take place on 4, 5, 6 and 7 June. A variety of music styles will be offered at different locations on the island as internationally renowned artists will mingle with local jazz musicians. Considering the large number of well known jazz musicians that are interested in participating in this year's festival, it has become clear that Bonaire Heineken Jazz Festival is now well known in the world of jazz.

As usual the Festival starts off at the cozy, romantic location of Fort Oranje on June 4 with the Jazz and Poetry evening, with presentations by Gabriël (Gabby) Saleh with his quartet, the Cabacao Trio, both local, that will break the ice for Denise Jannah, a vocalist of Surinamese/Dutch origin who was the main artist at the 2004 Festival.

On June 5 and 6 the two main concerts will take place at the Tipsy Seagull of the Plaza Resort. The top attraction will be the world famous Monty Alexander Quartet from Jamaica who will present his homage to Bob Marley. Because Monty is so well known many visitors are expected from outside Bonaire. The Hans Dulfer Band from the Netherlands will be performing, as will be the Alfredo Naranjo y El Guajeo from Venezuela with his Latin Jazz Salsa Band, Denise Jannah with a quartet from Curacao and last but not least, The Dikazz Group and the Silver Bullets Steelband from Bonaire. For those that just cannot get enough, jam sessions with festival musicians and locals will be held on those 2 nights at Sense, located at a stone throw from the Plaza and this will start at midnight.

The always very popular Jazz Brunch will be held on June 7 at the Divi Flamingo Resort where Festival musicians and local jazz artists will present the most incredible jam session while guests enjoy a wonderful brunch.
As prior years Heineken is the title sponsor and the main sponsors for the event this year are: Littman's Jewellers, Rocargo & IFC, It Rains Fishes Restaurant, Telbo, Caribbean Homes and Yachts, Maarten Maartense, Plaza Resort Bonaire, Divi Flamingo Resort Bonaire, Bonaire Fun Travel, Ennia, Sense and MCB Bank Bonaire.

 

Suzette Moses-Burton, HIV/AIDS Programme Manager just around Valentine's Day received an undisclosed monetary donation from ENNIA Insurances. In photo is Guy Cozijns, Manager ENNIA Insurances St. Maarten along with Suzette Moses-Burton. The money will be used to continue activities in the field of HIV/AIDS.

Maho: --- The audience and judges in both rounds of last night's debate were kept on the edge as both teams who participated in both rounds of the second night debating competition came prepared.
The Leeward Island Debating Competition began on Thursday night and will last until Sunday.
The Maho convention center indeed came alive during the first round when the St. Maarten team debated against Nevis on the moot "Religion should be a compulsory part of the Caribbean School Curricula".
Representing St. Maarten was Kevin James and Johnicia Joseph on the proposing team while Joanne Fleming and Michele Slack McGrath represented Nevis on the opposing end.
It was clear from the inception that St. Maarten was going to come out the winner as Kevin James the only male on the team took command of the audience as he represented the moot. James made clear that having religion as a compulsory course would help to shape youths both in and outside of school. He pointed out that the Caribbean nation would not have to re-invent the wheels since religious guidance is already part of the Caribbean Examination Council guidelines. Having such a subject also would enable students to better understand and know their peers religious culture and beliefs and help reduce the rate of crime and youth delinquency. St. Maarten came out with 649 points while Nevis just behind with 617 points. Best speaker of the night went to James who captivated the attention of the audience. James also received credits for taking the stance he does in education. Chief Judge Dencio Bryson in his congratulatory message to James said that normally men have taken the back seat in education but James he said displayed stark qualities in his beliefs. The other judges were Drs. Leopold James and Cedric Hodge.
The opposing team argued that making religion compulsory would influence discrimination and most of all would put added pressure on students who already have a heavy work load. With thorough research they showed that Islands like Jamaica and Trinidad has the highest crime rates even though most schools in Jamaica are from a religious background. However, information provided by the team did not sit well with the Jamaican audience who said that taking statistics from Jamaica is not representing the entire Caribbean. The Jamaicans displayed some outrage since they felt the opposing team did base their arguments from the negativity of Jamaica. Order had to be brought to the floor by the moderator when the discussions became somewhat uncontrollable.
During the third debate between the British Virgin Islands and Antigua the four young ladies on the team made sure they dug deep into each others culture. The moot for that debate was "A politician personal lifestyle should be considered when determining suitability for public office". On the proposing team representing Antigua was Tessa Marius and Alicia Ward. These two young ladies did their best to show that ones personal life determines their character and would definitely influence their decision making. They believe in such trying times politicians should not be given the opportunity to indulge in corruption as was the case in some of the islands. However, the two did not manage to convince the judge with their arguments. The BVI team who was represented by Corina Corea and Nikkea Roberts did a much better job in showing that ones personal lifestyle does not hinder their achievements in public office. Roberts in her arguments pointed out that the Antigua Prime Minister Lester Bird was no easy man, he had some 12 children outside of his two marriages yet he was declared a national hero based on his political achievements. Roberts made reference to US president Barrak Obama who was criticized for his personal choices such as smoking weed and cigars but yet he managed to rally America to come together. References were used from Bill Clinton who could not maintain his loyalty to his wife but yet he led America for eight successful years. The BVI team managed to score 615 while Antigua a mere 565. Corina Correa also from the BVI walked away with the best speaker prize with 176 points.
The winners of last night's debate will be facing off tonight. The first round will be St. Kitts against the winner of debate 1 which was Anguilla on the moot "Polygamy is a viable alternative to prevent destructive consequences of single parent families". While St. Maarten would be debating against the BVI in the second round on the moot "Increasing Inflation rather than crime is the hindrance to Caribbean Development.

Philipsburg:---All over the world, governments have recognized the need for some sort of an economic relief or stimulus package. There cannot be any doubt as to the necessity of being proactive in these difficult times.

SHTA reiterated its concerns regarding the current economic crisis. Since spring 2008, the SHTA has been warning about the potential economic difficulties businesses will endure in 2009. By fall 2008, the predictions were worrying. Feedback from businesses indicates that things are now worse than anticipated. The time for Government to act is now! To date not one guilder has been spent on an economic stimulus plan. Instead, things have become more cumbersome and expensive for businesses, which will ultimately impact the community in the form of higher cost of living. In keeping with the SHTA's strive to obtain some form of relief to the businesses and residents of St. Maarten, the SHTA has and will continue to advocate for the following:

1. Elimination of Turn Over Tax for a period of time. Many businesses agree that the
2.
3.
4. elimination of this tax, which was originally meant to be implemented on a temporary basis, would offer a significant relief to businesses and residents almost immediately.

5. Approval of US 4.1 million dollar marketing program, submitted by the SHTA and the Tourism Bureau. These emergency funds would be used for an intensive marketing and promotional campaign in St. Maarten's primary and secondary visitor source markets. This is the minimum amount needed urgently to increase visitor arrivals and save an estimated 2000 jobs that would be at stake, should the current situation continue unmitigated, the two entities stressed.

6. Realizing that government doesn't have money to fulfill its obligation to the people of St. Maarten (in regard to the crisis at hand), an urgent request is necessary from the island and federal governments to request financial assistance from Holland.

7. Implementation of the long-awaited Tourism Authority. The presence of such a tourism body, comprising of public and private sector representatives will ensure that decisions are made quickly and effectively allowing our tourism industry to become more impactful and agile.

8. All other entities (businesses and residents) have already taken measures to increase productivity, efficiency and reduce expenses. Government too needs to begin to curtail expenditures in order to prepare for decreasing government revenue. Failure to reduce expenditures may result in higher fees and taxes for the people.

9. Urgent follow-up on Chamber's initiative to formulate economic relief summit. The St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry proposed the development of an economic stimulus plan for the island's businesses and consumers.

10. In these trying times, the restoration of confidence in government is of utmost importance. Therefore the SHTA calls for the approval of the proposed code of conduct for all government officials that were submitted by the Lt. Governor.

11. Reinstitute the joint marketing committee in order to structure tourism promotion between the French side and Dutch side. Structural cooperation will increase the island's marketing possibilities and improve the island's main economic pillar, tourism.

12. The feeling of safety amongst businesses, residents and visitors is essential in safeguarding the island's standing as a preferred Caribbean destination. Therefore, the SHTA encourages continued efforts by the police to control crime.

Adding to the burdens of businesses is the recently implemented Work Permit Policy. This policy has caused businesses additional time and money instead of the relief needed in these trying times. The SHTA therefore feels that the following is necessary to ensure a system free of frustration and abuse:

SHTA agrees and understands that priority must be given to local employment but in the event suitable local labor is not available the work and residence permitting process must be streamlined and affordable. Abuse must be regulated but killing the economy in order to manage abuse is not the solution.

13. Statistical information has been requested from the labor office regarding, numbers of unemployed, positions, educational level, experience etc. The SHTA feels that this statistical information should form the basis for the recently implemented regulations.

14. The Executive Council should disclose information regarding technical comments submitted by the governor general on the revised policy. See attached letter.

15. The formalization of the Labor tripartite committee. The SHTA believes that the structure should be formalized in such a way that procedures and binding decisions will be made clear. Additionally, an impartial person, preferably an economist, should be called to chair the meetings. This will assist in guiding the policy that will benefit both labor and businesses giving St Maarten's economy a sound foundation to grow.

Philipsburg: --- Responding to questions about the current status of commissioner Louie Laveist leader of government Sarah Wescot Williams said to date the embattled commissioner has not yet resigned. Asked if she was still pursuing that resignation the island leader said she is still expecting the commissioner to live up to his promise and resigned. Commissioner Laveist was detained by Federal Detectives late last year. He spent some nine days in pre-trial detention before being released. The commissioner has been summoned to appear in court on February 11 2009 where he would be answering charges to bribery, fraud and forgery. Laveist is represented by attorney Remko Stomp.

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Education Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, is adding her voice to the appeal made by United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on the crucial role that teachers have to play in fostering the global citizen of tomorrow who transcends national borders to tackle the problems of the world at large.
Teachers have been challenged to do their part in raising awareness among students in schools about the issues the world currently faces, and the need for international cooperation in addressing them.
The two crises at the moment are the global financial crisis and climate change and both demonstrate powerfully the limits of boundaries and borders in thinking about problems that influence and threaten all of us.
The teachers role is crucial in communicating to global citizens-in-the-making what it means to live in an increasingly interdependent community where we are accountable not just to ourselves and our families, communities and countries, but also to the people throughout the world.
"I concur with the UN Secretary General when he says that teachers can help students grow into this notion of a global civic identity, and understand how their decisions have an impact ranging well beyond their immediate vicinity," Commissioner of Education Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS).

Marigot: ---- The MOCSAM (MOVEMENT CITOYEN SAINT MARTIN) says the Prefecture of Saint Barthelemy and Saint Martin takes over the Collectivity's policy of intimidation with regards to the payment of the vehicle tax, which is unacceptable the citizens of Saint Martin

If the argument is cash requirement only for the Collectivity of St. Martin, we ask that you look at the responsible persons, the Community and the legality of the road tax. According to a press release issued by the Prefecture it is said the road tax is legal since it is in the Organic Law.
a) This is not an organic law which gives the collection to the treasurer, but was the General Code of Territorial CGCT.
b) The Act has the merit of being clear and LO Article 6351-3, reads as follows:---

"Art. LO 6351-3. - I. - The territorial council is entitled in respect of guarantees on the whole national territory for the exercise of public freedoms, to adopt measures in the field of criminal law only for the purposes mentioned in article LO 6314-5. These acts must be in respect the classification of violations and crimes. They establish penalties may not exceed the maximum provided for similar offenses by the laws and regulations.

"The project or the proposed act in the first paragraph shall be forwarded by the President of the territorial council and to the Minister responsible for Overseas Territories who acknowledged without delay. Upon such approval, the Minister and the Minister of Justice proposes to the Prime Minister within two months, a draft decree to either the total or partial approval of the text or refusing approval.

"The decree which refused approval is motivated. It is notified to the President of the territorial council.

"The project or the proposed act may be adopted by the territorial council in the same terms.

"When a concern in the field of law, the decrees provided for in the second paragraph may not enter into force before their ratification by law.

"The acts provided for in this article may be respectively modified by a law or an order or a decree that includes a specific mention of application to Saint-Martin.

"II. - With reference to I, the territorial council is empowered to adopt measures in the field of policing and security at sea.

"The decisions taken in pursuance of the acts mentioned in the first paragraph of this II are subject to hierarchical control of the state representative. Their entry into force is subject to receipt by the representative of the State.

Clearly, this debate would never enter into force. While awaiting the verdict of the court, we hope to put an end to this sterile polemics.

Philipsburg:---Commissioner responsible for Youth Affairs Maria Buncamper-Molanus said that government is willing to cooperate with the BES islands on areas of mutual interest.

The Commissioner met with Dutch Minister of Youth & Family Affairs Andre Rouvoet on Friday last to express exactly that. The meeting was added to the Minister's itinerary upon the request of Commissioner Buncamper to Dutch Representative Rob Vermaas. During the meeting held in the VIP room on PJIA

The Commissioner was accompanied by Shermina Powell-Richardson of the Sector Youth Affairs and made short presentations to the Minister on a number of topics. These included the "Quick Scan on Poverty Alleviation programs Windward Islands", in which the target youth is mentioned numerous times regarding lack of facilities, integration of youth in the labor market and training facilities geared towards the needs of the local labor market.

Also discussed were the "The Integrated Youth Policy Plan", "Safety Plan St. Maarten", which includes a specific component for the youth, the "Youth Justice Facility Windward Island", and the "Community Help Desk" whose target group is the whole population of St. Maarten with as a special target group youth and parents in need of assistance. Sports projects and the "Youth Residential Care" program were also touched on.

The Commissioner thanked the Minister for taking time our to meet with her on these very important issues and looks forward to working together with the BES islands which in the end will only benefit the youth of the various islands.

Philipsburg: -- Independent island councilman Louis Laveist did not mingle with words yesterday when he told the island Lt. Governor and Chairman of the island council Franklyn Richards that he has declared himself an independent member of the island council. Laviest said by declaring independent means that the island council now has three factions and the chairman who is charged with providing him with the necessary tools and office has not yet done so.
Laviest said the chairman Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards failed to mention that there was a third faction during the special island council meeting which was held earlier in the day to bid farewell to former Island Councilman Ebenezer Richardson who was a neighbor of Laveist. The councilman said he did not feel it was the proper time and place to address the issue during the special island council meeting. However, he said if he did not mention the issue during the second island council meeting then it would have been remiss of him. Laveist said he personally believes that this was an oversight on the part of the chairman. However, he said he would like for the chairman to take the matter seriously. He also made clear that this does not jeopardize the support he gave to the Democratic Party to re-form government during the month of November. "The same loyalty I gave the DP when I was member of that party, that loyalty still remains as an Independent member" Laveist said people have asserted that the DP are having troubles but assured that is not on his account.

The island councilman also rebuked the chairman for constantly vacating his seat while chairing the island council without appointing a replacement. Laveist said in his years of politics he has served as an Island council member, commissioner and parliamentarian, faction leader for two terms for the DP. Laveist said during his years in parliament as well as during his years in the island council under the chairmanship of others have has he seen any chairman vacated their seat or took the lectern without appointing a replacement. Laveist said even though he noticed both incidents during the special island council meeting he did not think mentioning it during that time would have been the right thing to do. He called on the chairman to bring about some clarity on the matter. Laveist said he wants to know when the chairman takes the lectern for five or ten minutes who is the chairman of the island council during that period if time.

He said no one should not take his statements as confrontational or challenging anyone's authority.

After making his public statements Laveist told SMN News that while the Lt. Governor is busy calling on him to resign as a commissioner he is neglecting his duties as the chairman of the island and executive councils. The commissioner said so far Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards did not provide him with the necessary tools and an office as a third faction yet he is calling on him to resign from the executive council even though the issue is political. Furthermore, Laveist said Richards is attacking him personally because he seems to have something against his person. "This is no hearsay I know the Governor has something personal against me". Laveist said.

Laveist further explained that what is taking place in the island council of St. Maarten cannot take place anywhere else in the world or third world countries. He said Richards has no respect for the rules of order (ERNA) as well as the eleven island council members who were elected by the people of St. Maarten. The commissioner who is set to answer charges of fraud, forgery and bribery on Wednesday said this is the first time he mentioned the irregularities but the chairman was notified on these issues on numerous occasions by other island council members.

Philipsburg: ------ Commissioner of Labor Affairs Sarah Wescot Williams said the new labor policy which was launched just a month ago creates more transparency within the labor market. She said this assessment was based on the job vacancies that are now being advertised in several newspapers. Wescot Williams said she is extremely pleased with the transparency that this new policy has created.
The labor commissioner also issued a strong call to all job seekers to go after these vacancies. She said it is evident since the introduction of the new labor policy it has become much more transparent on employment availability and the positions that are available. She said she is specifically calling on job seekers and not only the unemployed since there are people who wants to move from one job to another or even are looking to advance their career. "I am making a public call to you to go after the jobs that are being advertised which needs to be filled on St. Maarten." The commissioner said.

Wescot Williams said that all persons who are already residing on St. Maarten should be considered for the vacancies whether or not their legal status is in order. She said when the head of the labor department had made this call he was criticized and many wanted to know if he was encouraging illegalities.

Wescot Williams said she approved the idea of dealing with all persons residing on St. Maarten since some of them for many years were not able to regulate their legal status even when it is not a fault of their own they are without a legal status. Wescot Williams said if they are to stem the influx of more foreign labor then it is only normal that they take on the responsibility and deal with the persons that are living on the island already as part of the work force.

Wescot Williams made reference to the policy of the Minister of Justice David Dick who introduced a policy in 2006 which states that persons that are residing on the island and are gainfully employed along with other conditions would be legalized.
The commissioner said she believes this is the way to go if they are to stem or regulate the influx of more foreign workers. She said she has first hand knowledge of people who are here and does not have a status for the island. "I am not talking about first generation, but I know persons from the second and now going into third generations whose statuses are not in order".
Wescot Williams said she personally feels that those in authority need to deal with those persons that are already on St. Maarten rather than adding more people to the island.

The commissioner said she would be holding a meeting with the head of the labor department on Friday and she is expecting to get a report on the progress of the new labor policy. The commissioner is also scheduled to meet with the Minister of Labor later this week where matters relating to labor will be discussed.

...

Philipsburg:--On Monday February 16th 2009, the representative ZENITEL, Albert KEMPER officially presented the police department. With its first "TM200" calibrating window tint meter.
This brand of tint meter is the one legally acknowledged by the Executive Counsel of St. Maarten. This tint meter will be used to measure the amount of sunlight that in penetrating through the windshields and other tinted windows of vehicles. This electronic device will allow the police officers to better control the violation of this law in an effective manner.

Philipsburg- All driving schools on St. Maarten are invited to a meeting by the Department of Control, Inspection & Security (C.I.S.) section Driving Examinations to discuss driving examination matters.

The location will be the John Larmonie Center, Long Wall Road # 18, on Thursday, February 19th, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The agenda points to be discus are:

Opening

In house procedure (Rules of engagement)

Duties of the examiner

The evaluation of the candidates "Theory examinations"
 Introduction;
 Implementation of the added and amended articles in the traffic ordinance will be as of April 6th 2009;
 The candidates should be prepared and ready with these new changes;
 Practical examinations
 Procedures pertaining to the practical examinations;
 The candidate's readiness for practical examination;

Which driving schools will be recognized by Census and C.I.S.

Information sheet from C.I.S.
 Information sheet in order to obtain a "Driving License" for any additions the driving schools may have to this sheet.

Question and remarks

Closing

 

Shots have been fired at French security forces on the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe where a month old general strike has degenerated into unrest.

Hundreds of extra French police and paramilitary gendarmes have been sent to the island since the strike tensions flared into looting and violence this week, with one union member shot dead on Tuesday.
The island prefecture said five shot gun rounds were fired at security forces at Gosier, near the capital Pointe-a-Pitre but no one was wounded.
A shop and a car in Pointe-a-Pitre were set ablaze and four people arrested nearby. Another store was looted at Sainte-Rose.
Paris issued calls for calm after the death of Jacques Bino, a union activist, who was caught in crossfire on Tuesday while driving a car near a roadblock manned by armed youths who had opened fire at police with buckshot in the capital Pointe-a-Pitre.
The focus of the riots, which began on January 20, has shifted away from the immediate demands for better wages.
Demonstrators are now demanding an end to domination of the economy by "Bekes," the local name for white families that trace their roots to the colonial landlords and sugar plantation slave owners of the 17th and 18th centuries.
Racial strains have been aggravated by the strong position of traditional land owning families that possess as much as 90 per cent of its estimated wealth. Landowners also control the island's shops and food distribution networks, which are popularly believed to overcharge for imported goods, a situation that undercuts the value of state subsidies to the island.
As the strike started, one prominent member of a Beke family, Alain Huyghues-Despointes fuelled public anger by criticising mixed-race marriages and stating a personal preference to "preserve his race."
Paris said it was prepared to reinforce local security forces as the monthlong labour dispute over low wages and white control of the economy became increasingly violent.
Socialist opposition leader, Malikh Boutih, said it was "shocking" to watch a police force "almost 100 per cent white, confront a black population" and drew a parallel with suburban riots on the French mainland in 2005.
"There are no concrete buildings, there are palm trees, but it's the same dead-end, the same 'no future' for young people, with joblessness and a feeling of isolation," Boutih said.
Other politicians claim the island's black majority constitutes a disadvantaged caste, trapped by birth in a poverty-stricken existence.
Protests originated with demands by the Collective Against Exploitation (LKP), a coalition of unions and leftists for a monthly 200 euro (£177) pay increase for low-wage earners. With wage negotiations looming with French unions, Paris has resisted the demands Nicolas Sarkozy, the French president, recalled overseas officials to a meeting in Paris today after Michelle Alliot-Marie, the Interior Minister, declared the security situation was in a downward spiral.
The violence has provoked divisions in Mr Sarkozy's cabinet with black minister Rachida Data acknowledging that Guadeloupe suffered from "a problem with the distribution of wealth."
Elie Domota, the head of the LKE, accused the French state of treating the trouble as a distant colonial flare-up. "Guadeloupe is a colony because they would never have allowed the situation to fester for so long in a French department before taking action,"
Six members of the security forces were slightly injured during shoot-outs with armed youths, including three police officers who were hurt while helping emergency teams who tried to save Mr Bino's life.
Most shops, cafés, banks, schools and government offices have been shut in Guadeloupe and the neighbouring tourist island of Martinique as a result of region-wide disturbances.
While both islands, which are formally integral to the French state, are disadvantaged compared to the mainland, the standard of living is much higher than in the former English and Spanish colonies in the Caribbean.

Philipsburg:--- HIV/AIDS programme Manager Suzette Moses BURTON has been selected by the Edward Green Recognition Award (EGRA) committee to receive the EGRA award for her efforts and dedication towards the eradication of stigma and discrimination against HIV/AIDS patients.
Moses Burton was selected based on her creativity and design of the RED Campaign presently taking place on St Maarten.
The ERA committee official notified Moses Burton about her selection via a letter which reads:-

It is with great pleasure that I formally advise you of your selection to receive the Edward Greene Recognition Award (EGRA). Congratulations!

The Award, named in honour of Dr. Edward Greene, Assistant Secretary General, Human and Social Development, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat for his sterling contribution in advancing the Caribbean development agenda in the social sectors and, particularly, in the field of health and HIV & AIDS, is also in recognition of your own dedicated and sterling efforts in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Your advocacy in national, regional and international fora for the eradication of stigma and discrimination against people with HIV and AIDS is indeed laudable, as well as the creativity and enthusiasm you bring to bear in the design and execution of HIV and AIDS programmes in St. Maarten. The Red Campaign is indeed worthy of commendation.

On behalf of the Committee for the EGRA, I'm therefore pleased to invite you to receive this award at a special ceremony on 7 March 2009, at the Belair Health and Fitness Centre, 59 Welgelgen Road, Cayhill, Philipsburg, at 19:00 hrs.

 

...

POINTE BLANCHE:---- In an effort to maximize ongoing research at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities in Pointe Blanche, the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies have acquired portable hand-held units that allow research facilitators to immediately input and report the research data into an online tracking and reporting system, providing reliable and efficient results, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies announced on Sunday.

"The global community of nations is going through a very difficult time now and the impact of the financial-economic crisis will also affect St. Maarten as a cruise destination in the months to come, however, we must continue to prepare ourselves as a cruise destination for when the global economy starts to pick up again. The use of the latest technology in gathering information from our customers will allow us to continue to be at the forefront of port and cruise developments," CEO Mark Mingo pointed out.

As an ongoing measure of the success of the Port of St. Maarten, the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies has conducted extensive marketing research over the past couple of years. This mainly entails qualitative marketing research to gather pertinent information from cruise passengers and crew members arriving at the Port of St.Maarten. The research covers various areas of interest, including the new harbour facilities, transportation, shopping trends, general cruise passenger demographics, and also looks deeper into the international cruise trends, competitive climate and sustainability of St.Maarten as a viable cruise destination.

"With the assistance of a local independent agency, Innovative Marketing Creations (IMC), we are committed to evaluating our progress and thereby, prepare ourselves to take advantage of the opportunities that come forth" added CEO Mark Mingo for the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies.

During the research, a wide variety of findings were uncovered; the most impressive being the popularity of shopping among both cruise passengers and crew members, which ranked as their top activity while on the island. Reports also showed a wide-spread willingness to return time and time again. Furthermore, with the strengthening of the euro, the floodgates of European cruise passengers are opening. This signifies that despite the global economic crisis, St.Maarten's cruise industry remains poised for continuous growth.

"With the competitive climate of the cruise industry, we need to understand more about the strengths and weaknesses of our market, in order to make adjustments, as necessary, and ensure that our tourists always have an enjoyable experience. This allows us to move full speed ahead with our plans to position the Port of St.Maarten as the Monaco or Riviera of the Caribbean region," expressed Mingo.

 

POINTE-A-PITRE, Guadeloupe (AP) - Protesters rebuilt roadblocks Monday as talks showed little progress in ending a 35-day-old general strike over wages or helping this French island's inhabitants cope with economic crisis.
Representatives of the French government left the negotiating table Monday night, saying they were not prepared to meet the strikers' demand for a euro200 ($250) monthly raise for those making euro900 ($1,130) a month.
"The state doesn't believe that it should finance or reimburse wage increases for private employers," Nicolas Desforges, the island's top Paris-appointed official, told reporters. He said the representatives were awaiting new instructions from Paris before they would return.
Leaders of the strike-leading Collective Against Exploitation said they had reached a tentative agreement with small business groups to meet half the requested raise but that the rest would have to come from the government.
Meanwhile, protesters prepared to take the dispute back to streets where riots raged last week, pushing burnt-out cars back into intersections and erecting new roadblocks on major highways.
"If they don't want to talk, we will put the popular pressure on the streets and make them share their fortune with the people of Guadeloupe," Patrice Tacita, a Collective Against Exploitation official, told hundreds of supporters in front of the seaside port authority building where negotiations are taking place.
Last week, rioters smashed windows, burned cars and threw rocks at police, who fired tear gas. Union leader Jacques Bino was shot and killed, apparently by rioting youths, in an incident still being investigated.
The workers have been striking since Jan. 20, tapping widespread resentment over the control that descendants of slave holders hold over much of the island's economy. Strikes also have taken place on the nearby French island of Martinique.
The labor collective has a list of nearly 140 demands including the wage increase, covering issues from lowering the cost of imported goods to environmental and judicial reform.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy last week announced a euro million ($730 million) financial package to help development in France's overseas regions.
But Sarkozy remains unpopular in Guadeloupe, where his response to the global financial crisis, including bank bailouts, was seen as management-friendly.
"They give plenty of money to the banks to face the crisis, they must make an effort for the consumers too," collective negotiator Harry Durimel said.
Shops in the principal city of Pointe-a-Pitre opened briefly on Monday for the first time in more than a month, but metal storefront gates came crashing down as the marchers approached waving red flags and pumping their fists.

Philipsburg:--- Yesterday's island council took another twist when island councilman Rudolphe Samuel revealed that a civil servant in the ROB lied or misled members of the island council and especially his boss during a central committee meeting.
Samuel said recently Commissioner Theo Heyliger who chaired one of the central committee meetings asked Claudius Tooncha Bumcamper if MNO Vervat received a hindrance permit for the heavy industry in the area of the zoo and the civil servant in question said yes that permit was granted.

He said to hear that the commissioner now says that such a permit was never granted. Samuel said if the Central Committee cannot rely on the answers given by civil servants or department heads then the island government is in big trouble. The councilman said he wants to know if the commissioner in question or the executive council plans to take measures against this civil servant because he intends to seek legal advice on the matter. He said the outright lie was told during a central committee meeting when they met to handle zoning ordinances. He said this is reason why the commissioner in question is in trouble with answering questions. He said he believed thus is the reason why the Lt. Governor has to take someone from his cabinet to work at that department as well as the commissioner who sent his senior assistant there also since they all know something is drastically wrong at the ROB.
Samuel demands that answers and or clarity be given on the matter since island council members have to take decisions based on the information that is provided to them and if they are given wrong information then it is normal that they would be making wrong decisions. He indicated that he took the matter rather serious and would be seeking legal advise to see what could be done.

Philipsburg:--The Economic Summit on Thursday, March 4 will be held at the Westin Resort. The summit, spear-headed by the Chamber of Commerce and Island Government will be an all-day affair that will bring stakeholders together to explore mitigating measures for the present economic situation.

Prior to the summit, a public presentation will be given by President of the Central Bank Mr. Emsley Tromp. His public presentation will be held at the Philipsburg Cultural and Community Center on at 7:pm The Summit is on Thurs. March 5
This vital economic summit is being held to assess the actual situation of the island's economy and to gather recommendations for stimulus and possible additional ways to mitigate the affects on St. Maarten of the world wide financial crisis.

Philipsburg- Head of the Census Office Leona Marlin, announces that the old St. Maarten identity cards (ID) will no longer be valid as of April 1.

Persons are requested to visit the Census Office before April 1 to turn in their old ID cards and replace it with the new credit card size cards that were introduced several years ago.

The administrative cost for a new ID card is Naf.35 and for senior citizens (60+) is Naf.15.

The ID card is legal proof of identity. It is used to open bank accounts or other types of services that requires some form of identification.

The ID card is also a required document for some government procedures.

Failure to produce the card may result in being denied access to premises or attainment of goods and services.

Those who require further information can call the Census Office at: 542-2457 or 542-5375.

In the meantime, the census office is asking holders of all old Identification Cards to turn in those cards after April 1 since the cards are no longer valid. Persons who turn in their old cards in exchange for the new card, processing fees for the new card are Naf.35 and for senior citizens (60+) is Naf.15. For further information you can call 542-2457 or 542-5375.

Pointe Blanche:---- The 35 workers of the St. Maarten Port Services has at least one more year of work based on the judges ruling in the injunction that was filed against Tropical Shipping. The judge in his ruling said that Tropical Shipping must honor all contracts with the St. Maarten Port Services until April 1, 2010 or face a stiff penalty of up to $25,000 per day which can go up to fifty million.
The judge said his ruling must stand even if the company Tropical Shipping should appeal. Tropical Shipping must continue doing business until a final decision is rendered if an appeal is filed.

Even though skeptical and the latter is likely the St. Maarten Port Services already placed the dismissal process at the Federal Labor Department on hold until a final decision is rendered.

While it is clear that Tropical Shipping has made major investments in their new location and they were actually prepared to move from St. Maarten Port Services within a month's time, it is evident the company would be appealing the ruling which was handed down in the Court of First Instance yesterday.

Simpson Bay:--- Police was called yesterday morning at approximately 10.30 a.m. the Central Police dispatch received a telephone call, informing them of a possible armed robbery was taking place at the Windward Island Bank ( Simpson-bay Branch). The central dispatch immediately dispatched several police patrols and detectives from various departments were directed into that direction in order to investigate the matter and apprehend the possible suspect or suspects.

However on the scene detectives learnt from the bank management, that this was not a case of an armed robbery. Management stated that for approximately a little more than week, they been keeping a close eye on a group of at least three men, who have been frequenting this branch of the bank. These men possibly of South American decent would come into the bank, walk around, look around and monitor various clients in the bank. They themselves would not conduct any business in the bank. Because of their very suspicious behavior which took place this morning again and management not trusting the situation, the police department was notified.

On arrival at the bank the three men were arrested after being identified as the suspects. One man is from Colombia, one from Bolivia and the other from the Dominican Republic. All three suspects were arrested and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station for further investigation. No money from the bank was stolen or any clients of the bank were robbed. No weapons of any sort were found. The investigation is still in its preliminary stage and as soon as more information becomes available it will be made known says Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson.

Philipsburg: ---Tension continues to rise within the police force of St. Maarten since they are not sure in what direction the force is going. Already more than 50 officers have left the force over recent years and none of them has been replaced, something which caused a huge vacuum in the force. The latest officer to leave the force is Assistant Police Commissioner Richard Panneflek who so far has remained mum on his departure. It is understood that the Minister of Justice David Dick did not grant Panneflek an official Lands Besuilt which is a decree on his departure. However, Panneflek is said to be working closely with the island government to form a security company which would grant more security to St. Maarten.

Minister of Justice David Dick confirmed that assistant chief commissioner of police Richard Panneflek has been transferred. Dick said that Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran is now fully in charged of the force while police coach Ronald Dongor will be the one to implement the changes that is necessary for the force to function better. Several senior officers are now talking about leaving the force since according to the negligence is running the force a-ground. Already there is indication that the force is ill-prepared and is not ready to take on the challenges of country St. Maarten.
While opinion varies among the officers it is clear the officers are fully divided into three groups which is grossly affecting the efficiency of good policing.

Presently Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran, who is considered to be one of St. Maarten's young, bright and vibrant officers now, has to carry the burden of managing the force and there is strong indication that Doran would not receive full cooperation from his colleagues. It is understood that Doran has more than 600 immigration documents to process which he has so far refused to deal with. The police commissioner is also head of detectives.
Leader of Government Sarah Wescot Williams said during yesterday's press briefing that as leader of government she saw a letter concerning Panneflek's transfer but the island government has no update as to who would be in charge and there is no correspondence on the actual transfer.

Marigot: --- The investigation surrounding the death of 21 year old Christopher Williams revealed that one of the suspects was involved in several robberies on the French side of the island. The gendarmes reported that on Wednesday they transferred an 18 year old to Guadeloupe.

This suspect was involved in a robbery in Lowlands on January 24th. The suspect was found in possession of foreign cash, jewelry and a digital camera which was missing from the home in Lowlands. The investigation further revealed that then suspect was responsible for other robberies including a business establishment in April 2007, while items from a robbery which was conducted on a boat in September 2008 as well as a robbery in a medical office in November 2008.

Marigot: --- The Collectivity of Saint Martin just invested 40,000 Euros for a new logo that has no symbolic values to Saint Martin except for the color of Union Pour les Progres.
Pundits are saying that while the island is pressured with a financial crisis and a worldwide recession the monies spent on the logo is a complete waste of funds since the COM also lost over 21 million Euros from the Octroi de mer funds. They said the COM is using scare tactics to get the population to pay the road tax for last year and has began calling on vehicle owners to pay the 2009 road tax less than nine months after they paid the first vehicular tax. Residents already indicated that they would not be paying these additional taxes since the elected officials at the COM are not using tax payer's monies to the benefit of the people.
SMN News understands that President Frantz Gumbs hosted his birthday party at the La Samana Hotel in December where he invited some 40 persons. The bill for this party was paid for by the COM while just last week another birthday bash was held at the COM for a newly employed DGA.

Another concern for many St. Martiners is that just last week the President of the Collectivity of Saint Martin recently notified the local union that he would not be respecting the protocol signed by former President of the COM Louis Constant Fleming which states that the employees would be receiving an increase in their salaries. This information SMN News understands was disclosed to the union during a meeting on Friday.

Sources close to the party said that there is a high rift between the former president and now senator Louis Constant Fleming and the present president Frantz Gumbs whom he appointed when he was sanctioned last July. It is understood that Senator Fleming is highly disappointed and even feels guilty at the way the country is being run since Gumbs was his selection for the post.

It is said that Fleming is constantly dealing with party problems each time he returns to the island while valuable information on the management of the COM is withheld from him.
The well placed source said that the party leader is looking into taking drastic measures since there is a huge division within the ruling party. One such division is the lack of support given to Territorial Councilor Ida Zin Ka Ieu who is also president of the Tourist Office who has not yet gotten her yearly indemnity. It is said that Zin Ka Ieu is having severe problems with her colleagues which would soon escalate.

SMN News was reliably informed that Fleming saw the true colors of his pal Frantz Gumbs last Wednesday night when he invited them to a UMP meeting at his Bellevue office. Sources say that one of the VP's walked out of the meeting and slammed the door behind him saying he is not going to continue taking anymore "BS".

The source said that Fleming is now working on ways to take measures against the people who were elected under him.

Pointe Blanche:--- The Russian inmate identified as S who is kept at the Pointe Blanche prison suspected of money laundering is now in a hospital in Curacao after he was beaten by a another prisoner. S. suffered a broken jaw during the ordeal.
Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein confirmed the incident took place last week end.
Stein said the prisoner and victim already filed an official complain against his attacker and criminal proceedings will now begin.

SMN News has been reliably informed that S' attacker is well known convict Flamingo who once escaped from the prison.
SMN News also understands two teenage girls were arrested at the prison when they attempted to smuggle drugs into the institution. So far police have not issued any reports on either of the cases.

Managing Director of Fancy Loaf Bakery and Honey Crunch Bakery, Desmond Herbert 11 confirmed that contrary to the impression created by the recent increase in bread prices announced by several bakers there has, in fact, been no increase in the price of both his $1.25 and $3.00 bread products. He however admitted that there has been an increase in other baked products noting that bread is a necessity thus he though it fit to maintain the price that customers can afford.

In an interview with Herbert he pointed out that despite his bakery, Fancy Loaf which at the time of negotiations with the Government of St Kitts and Nevis being represented he saw it fit to keep the bread prices down. He pointed out that his latest bakery, Honey Crunch recently opened its door and felt that while bakers are no longer enjoying concessions on certain products he strongly believes that arising the price of bread at this time would be unrealistic.

He said that while the bakers are faced with challenges he feels strongly that they could have given the general public another six to nine months of at the same price before instituting an increase in the bread prices. "I strongly believe that the other products should be sold at whatever price the bakers wants to sell at because if your product is good then the public would purchase it regardless of the cause however with bread its different as we all need bread whether we are poor or rich so increasing the price for bread didn't make sense at the time," Herbert stressed.

He feels that keeping his prices at the same despite the increase was "a timely intervention" thus resulting in his bakery having to absorb the full amount of the price increase in a number of items through other areas such as the other baked products.

According to Herbert who is also the Managing Director for Quality Trading Supplies Supermarket and Quality Trading Wholesale that prior to the official increase the company had given a commitment to government and its customers that they were not going to increase the bread prices. "I had even telephone them (Government) when certain bakers sought to unilaterally increase the bread prices indicating that while it was a challenge to us we were prepared to ‘help out' and not increase," he said.

According to Herbert the decision to keep to=he bread prices down was done so "in good faith" and despite the fact that concessions enjoyed by bakers in the past are no longer available thus resulting in bakers having to incur additional costs to run their bakeries he sought to keep his commitment.

He said that with 2009 already here local consumers were fortunate to still be able to continue benefiting from "the cheapest bread in the Caribbean and even further a field" and that towards the end of this year while he may be forced to increase prices there would be other avenues that his two bakeries will seek to provide avenues for local consumers to garner reduction and other benefits owing to the ongoing financial crisis that the world is faced with.

Herbert admitted that the smaller bakers are facing the squeeze more noting that while the larger bakers are willing and ready to ‘eat out' the smaller bakers emphases has to be place on ensuring that the smaller bakeries scan remain in the market. "there area few big bakers who wants to control the market to themselves forgetting that while it might be nice to them to clean out the smaller bakers a bigger problem will arise in increase in unemployment," he suggested.

Herbert admitted that while some of his competing bakeries are understandably upset with him for not increasing his bread prices he is determined to engage them and other relevant stakeholders in an atmosphere of cordiality in an effort to settle any issue while addressing their concern.

Herbert added that he believes strongly that as a businessman it is his responsibility to lend a helping hand to assist the government as they attempt to address economic issues facing its population. "At the end of the day whatever I do to help is going to benefit everyone and more in particular the poor as regardless of one's political and social affiliation, we are all affected in some way," he declared.

Philipsburg: --- Commissioner of Finance and Tourism Affairs Roy Marlin said that the executive council has decided to pool its finances to able to fight the effects of economic downturns that are already affecting several parts of the world. Marlin said simply by following international news on the economic downturn has created a sense of worry for St. Maarten. "Already we see people in the United States of America have been losing their jobs as well as the banking situation in that country is enough for us to worry since the USA is our primary source market" Marlin said.

The commissioner said there are a number of issues that are being dealt with which can negatively affect tourism. Those issues are the rising crime, and the passport scanning system at the airport. He said already the major stakeholders at the airport had submitted a letter on their concerns of the scanning system to the executive council. He said the executive council is looking at getting a meeting with the Minister of Justice and the police department to address this matter since it is having a ripple effect on tourism.

The finance commissioner said he also took note of the statements made by the SHTA on their need for additional funds to further market tourism during this downturn. He said as the commissioner of finance he is in constant meetings with the St. Housing and Trade Association (SHTA) on the economic recovery fund (ERF) where they discuss the management of the ERF funds that is provided by government. He said he fully supports the economic stimulus for the marketing and promoting of tourism. However, he made clear that this not the sole initiative of the stakeholders on the Economic stimulus but they have been preparing this jointly since they know it is needed and must be done.

Marlin said the executive council is seeking ways and means to allocate funding for the stimulus by taking the monies that is allocated in the 2009 budget for tourism marketing and promotion. Government he said has opportunities in the law governing financial supervision where they can approach the chairman of the Kingdom Council of Ministers to work outside the norms in cases of calamities.
He said in the SEI they can match funding for social and economic programs.
There are programs which have take effect in 2009 to 2011. He said the executive council in its meeting yesterday has decided to re-prioritize the SEI programs. Marlin said the idea is to make sure there are at least six to seven million guilders for the stimulus. The commissioner said however, there is a process that has to be followed before the monies is available. Parts of these monies he said will be coming from the local government while the other part from the USONA. He said right now they are looking into shifting the monies that is allocated in the SEI for this stimulus. He said some four million guilders would be coming from the tourism marketing programs and the other two or three million from matching programs in the SEI. Marlin said government has given this matter high priority since they know of the urgency.
Leader of government Sarah Wescot Williams in backing up the process said the kind of monies that would be needed for the additional marketing in this global condition is money that St. Maarten does not have which would make the kind of impact they would need to make. She stressed that whatever available funding the island government manages to put together then it is crucial that they determine how exactly that money is going to be spent. She said even though people love and would want to travel they simply would not be able to do so in this global economic downturn. She said that it is critical for the government as well as the private sector on St. Maarten to do their best and keep people working so that they can overcome the challenges. She emphasized that when people are working then they would be able to spend and that in itself would keep the economic engine running. When people are working they would be able to pay the banks and buy things outside of their basic needs the commissioner said.

Philipsburg:----- On Monday February 9th in the evening hours, during a traffic control held by members of Operation Trust II a rider of a scooter was stopped. During this traffic stop the rider of the scooter could not show the documents for the scooter in question. The young man was allowed to go to his home a get the papers for the scooter. However he took very long and the scooter had to be towed.
The father of the youngster came on the scene reprimanded his son for getting involved with the police. Later in the evening, the central police dispatch received another call informing them, that the same young man had blocked the driver of the towing truck and started a fight with him for towing his scooter. The father of the young man came to the scene again and physically reprimanded his son for his conduct. The situation seemed to be under control, however later in the evening the patrols were sent to the Emergency houses in Union Farm for a big fight. On the arrival of the patrol on the scene the police car was stoned, with result, that the rear windshield of the police car was destroyed. Who threw the stone is still been investigated but the police have learnt, that this act was committed because the young man scooter was towed.

The police Department want the general public to know that their task is mainly to protect and serve the community. This type of senseless unlawful and irresponsible acts, under no circumstances whatsoever will be tolerated by the police. An investigation will be done to find out who is responsible for this act but most of all these controls will continue.

Philipsburg:--- Emilio Wilson Estate Foundation and St. Maarten Pride will not support any development of the Emilio Wilson Estate. As far as the Foundations are concerned the entire Emilio Wilson Estate is a National Monument and is well on its way to being entirely protected and zoned for conservation purposes. EWEF and SXM-Pride are confident Government will not betray the people's confidence by considering the new plans presented to the Central Committee of the Island Council by Mr. Henri Brookson on Monday February 16th, 2009.

Three years and 6 months have past since St. Maarten's Environmental, Natural and Cultural Heritage Foundations first learnt of and filed objections against the proposed plans to develop the Emilio Wilson Estate.

Between September 2005 and February 2009 both the Executive Council and the Island Council have made commitments to the people of St. Maarten, in several Island Resolutions and Executive Council decisions, by denying the B.V.'s planning permit request and by resolving to protect the entire Emilio Wilson Estate based on its Cultural, Historical, Ecological, and Environmental Values.

The Island Council passed an Island Resolution on September 20th 2005 in which the Council resolved:

1. "To declare that the Island Territory is in favor of placing the estates the industry and the Goldenrock on the list of monuments of St. Maarten because of their historical and cultural value to the people of St. Maarten".

2. To charge the Executive Council of St. Maarten to present within sixty (60) days the following options and their consequences/implications- separately or in combination with one and another for:
a. Placing the Industry and the Goldenrock on the list of monuments of St. Maarten
b. The purchase of the property The Industry and the Goldenrock commonly known as the Emilio Wilson Estate.

On June 23rd, 2006 Government rejected/ denied the planning permit request submitted by the "Emilio Wilson Estate B.V." on the grounds that:

• The Emilio Wilson Estate B.V. was not formally established nor did it own the Emilio Wilson Estate property (or have a power of attorney to act as such) at the time of submitting the planning permit request/ proposal.
• The Emilio Wilson Estate is of Cultural and Historical value as described by Archaeologist Dr. Jay Haviser.
• The Emilio Wilson Estate is of Ecological Value as described in several reports.
• The area's water retention capacity and its role in preventing floods.

On July 10th, 2007 the Island Council unanimously passed an Island Resolution in which they:
• Reaffirmed the Council's aforementioned decision of June 23rd 2006.
• Decided to place both the entire Industry and the entire Goldenrock estates, commonly known as the "Emilio Wilson Estate", on the monument list.

Most recently, on July 1st, 2008 the Executive Council resolved to have the entire Emilio Wilson Estate designated as a protected monument and to zone it for conservation purposes. In addition to the aforementioned Executive Council decision, the VROM department of Sector ROB recently compiled a "draft preparatory resolution Conservation Areas" which is in essence the first step towards a comprehensive conservation zoning plan for the entire Emilio Wilson Estate.

Mr. Henri Brookson and his partners the Paas Family only managed to "obtain" the estate through a deal with the heirs of the late Mr. Emilio Wilson's brother the late Mr. Granville Wilson in early 2008. This arrangement, which requires Brookson and associates to make additional payments to the heirs of Mr. G. Wilson upon obtaining a planning permit, was made over 2 years and 5 months after Government first indicated and motivated its intention to protect the entire Emilio Wilson Estate. Brookson was therefore fully aware of Government's intention to have the estate protected and zoned for conservation purposes when he pursued and secured a deal with the heirs of Mr. G. Wilson.

Brookson's statements that he is the sole and outright owner of the Emilio Wilson Estate as well as his recently submitted "new plans for the Emilio Wilson Estate" are therefore just another unashamed attempt at misleading the general public and at depriving St. Maarten's residents of their patrimony for the sole purpose of personal financial gain.

EWEF and St. Maarten Pride Foundation reassure the numerous people that called the foundation's board members to express concern during the course of Tuesday February 17th, 2009 and all St. Maarten's residents that the Foundations have and will continue to be vigilant in their mission to have the entire Emilio Wilson Estate protected for future generations of residents and visitors to enjoy.

The Foundations commend both the Island and the Executive Council as well as supporting department staff on taking the necessary measures to secure the protection of the entire Emilio Wilson Estate and encourages government to continue providing for the protection of what will soon be St. Maarten's first National Park.

Basse Terre, Feb 19 (Prensa Latina) The detention of 33 people in the last few hours and the arrival from France of more police forces are testimony Thursday of the complex situation gripping this Caribbean island, on general strike for a month.
One union leader dead, six policemen injured, several fires and sacked stores define the five-week uprising, while the Paris government tries to find solutions.
Neighboring territories from Martinique and French Guiana are also stage for popular protests, although with less intensity.
Originated from the extreme poverty, they are against the economic policies French authorities have maintained.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy expects to meet today with parliamentarians and top leaders of the regional government from those islands and Guyana, as well as other representatives from overseas departments, to find a solution.
Among the main demands is an increase in 200 Euros of the lowest salaries and the reduction of prices in basic products, as an expression of the unrest due to the high cost of living.
According to reports, the French executive is evaluating the possibility of increasing the lower salaries as workers demand, which will be approved by owners and unions, with the aim of ending mass protests.

Commissioner of Sports Maria Buncamper-Molanus and Executive Assistant Veronica Jansen met with officials from the sports executing agency on Curacao SEDREKO on Thursday. Director Philip S. Elhage and Financial Controller Vergilly Winklar provided the Commissioner with an overview of the process was executed when the executing arm of the island government's sports department on Curacao was separated from the government department and placed in a foundation. The Commissioner has embarked on similar plans in St. Maarten which are now in the final stages of developing the policy and holding discussions with stakeholders outside of Government. Much information and documentation was shared and support offered. She explained that SEDREKO has been very helpful to her office for some time and was instrumental in providing information which got the process started."With the establishment of the executing agency on St. Maarten, all the assistance we can get will be appreciated," the Commissioner said.

Philipsburg:----On February 23, State Secretary of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Mrs. Ank Bijleveld Schouten, will be paying a working visit to St. Maarten. She will be informed in the morning at the airport on the deployment of Dutch military policemen and technical assistants in, notably, the security chain. Furthermore, she will speak with representatives of the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA) on the consequences of the financial crisis for tourism in St. Maarten.

In the afternoon, State Secretary, Mrs. Bijleveld, will visit the No Kidding with Our Kids Foundation. The foundation provides a successful after-school care program in the district of Sucker Garden. Approximately 150 children who are kept busy with, among other things, homework counseling, sports, handicraft and social skills are participating in this program. They also get a hot lunch every day.

While on the 24 and 25, State Secretary of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Mrs. Ank Bijleveld Schouten, will be visiting St. Eustatius. She will be accompanied by BES Commissioner Henk Kamp. The theme of the State Secretary's visit is the cooperation programs that the Netherlands has with the BES Islands. In this framework, there will be progress consultations with the Island Government.

Subsequently, Mrs. Bijleveld will visit a number of projects, including the Youth Care Foundation (financed by AMFO), whose objective is improving the social, mental and physical development of the youth. Furthermore, attention will be paid to recollecting and processing waste in St. Eustatius.

At the beginning of the evening, there will be an information meeting on what will change and what the consequences will be when St. Eustatius becomes a special municipality of the Netherlands. On Wednesday morning, February 25, the State Secretary's visit to the Windward Islands will end and she will leave for Bonaire.

At the end of the afternoon, the State Secretary will travel on to Saba.

On Monday afternoon, February 23, State Secretary of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Mrs. Ank Bijleveld Schouten, will address the people of Saba from 17.30 till 17.30 during a special information meeting at the Eugenius Center in Windwardside. The theme of the visit is the cooperation programs that the Netherlands has with the BES Islands. During her visit to the BES Islands, State Secretary, Mrs. Bijleveld, will be accompanied by BES Commissioner Henk Kamp. During this second round (the first information meeting was in July 2008) the State Secretary will give more detailed information on what will change and what the consequences will be when the islands become a special municipality of the Netherlands.

On Tuesday, February 24, the State Secretary will deliberate with the Island Government and she will pay a visit to a number projects financed by AMFO, including the Aids Foundation. In the battle against AIDS, this foundation has set up a long-range program, in which several aspects are considered, such as sexuality and discrimination. By means of various activities, the Saban foundation is trying to to increase the knowledge concerning HIV/AIDS. State Secretary, Mrs. Bijleveld, will also visit the Old Age Home, where the Saba Benevolent Foundation will soon initiate a training program for nurses working there. Around noon, the State Secretary will leave the island and fly on to St. Eustatius.

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Education Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, says discussions with educational officials during her working visit to the Capital City of Florida, Tallahassee, have been successful.
On Thursday Commissioner Wescot-Williams and Head of Study Financing Calvin Mardenborough, met with Joe Nosari, Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs and Robert Reinhardt of the Florida State University (FSU) Registrars Office, where the latter reassured their commitment to doing everything necessary for St. Maarten students to continue to study there under the instate tuition program.
Admission to FSU will become even more competitive as a result of budget cuts affecting all universities and colleges in the United States, but Reinhardt and Nosari assured that they will continue to do all in their power to live up to their commitments of admitting St. Maarten students under the Sister City agreement.
Where the University of St. Martin (USM) is concerned, a renewed effort is to be made of FSU accepting credits of students from USM and the possibility of student and faculty exchange programs.
It was also decided that the Memorandum of Understanding signed 10-years ago would be reviewed to see if any adjustments would be necessary in light of St. Maarten's country status.
At the end of the meeting Commissioner of Education Sarah Wescot-Williams thanked Robert Reinhardt for FSUs cooperation that has been given to Calvin Mardenborough throughout the years with regards to study financing recipients seeking admissions to FSU.
Also on Thursday St. Maarten's Leader of Government Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams along with Mardenborough attended the monthly breakfast meeting organized by the Tallahassee City's Economic Department.
The delegation was also given a tour of the largest Senior Citizens Center in Tallahassee.

Philipsburg: --- Commissioner of Public Works (ROB) Theo Heyliger requested at least two hours so that he can try to provide answers concerning the issuance of building permits which was discussed at yesterday's island council meeting. The topic which was requested by the National Alliance which was to be discussed since last Wednesday. During the first round of the island council meeting leader of the National Alliance William Marlin did not mingle with words when he posed several questions concerning the issuance of building permits. Marlin wants to know what the government policy on issuing those permits is and who are responsible for issuing exemptions. He said there are rumors in the public domain which states that several huge buildings are being built on the island without the necessary permits.
The Island Council man also wants to know what happened to the development plan for Low Lands and if government has abandoned this plan to please certain developers namely the Blue Mall owned by Luis Goya. Goya is the businessman who taped head of VROM Delano Richardson which prompted government to fire him on the spot. Marlin wants to know how many exemptions Goya received for Blue Mall and how many floors he received a permit to build from the inception as well as how many exemptions he received and who granted those exemptions. Most importantly he wants to know if members of the island council were in cahoots or in a sting operation to tape Richardson so that he can be fired on the spot.

Marlin also requested information as to who signs off on permits which has a maximum value of Naf.500.000, and what happens when a permit is denied and if the developer has to the right to appeal. He also wants to know what type of actions is taken against developers who build without a building permit.
The island council man also wants to know if there is some type of loop holes in the policy that is being circumvented by the developers and if these loop holes cannot be fixed.
Most importantly Marlin wants a list of all the permits that were issued during the years 2006 to 2009 and if those that were granted had enough parking space and other amenities to reach government requirement.

Marlin said he believes government should make their policy known so that the people would know the guideline and serve as a watchdog for the community. Furthermore, he wants to know if the island government deals with these issues on an adhoc manner depending on who the developer might be.
He raised questions about the building that is located on Blyden Drive that houses a furniture store. He requested information concerning the Cupe Coy Marina and if a building permit was issued for this project. If not he wants to know why not and what government is doing about it. Second to that the councilman wants to know if any building stops were issued to these developers whom he said is abusing the system. If that was done he wants to know how many of these stops were issued and to whom over the years. Marlin then moved to the Travel Inn building another controversial project on Billy Folley Road, he wants to know if the developer is this case received an exemption to turn his parking lot spaces into condos that he did not have permits for. How many floors does Travel Inns have and how many rooms are there and what parking space is provided are only some of the questions surrounding this property.

Marlin then moved to the Rainbow Beach Club and wanted to know if there is an ongoing court case with the island government and the developer.
He then moved to the Las Arinas that is also developed by Luis Goya . This building he said was built even though the VROM the FAA and the PJIAE gave a negative advice on the height of the building. He questioned which commissioner lobbied for the developer which ultimately led to an exemption which was not published.
He tied in the Blue Mall again by asking about the development plan of 2003 -2005 that is supposed to be used as the guideline or bible of the area in question. He wants to know what was the maximum amount of floors granted to Blue Mall from the beginning and how many exemptions this project received. Reasons why he believed government got the developer involved in a sting operation to fire Head of VROM Delano Richardson who did not always agreed with Goya. He asked why Richardson was not heard prior to being fired.

People Being Fooled-Who Owns land in Simpson Bay--- Frans Richardson.

Sending the point across island councilman Frans Richardson said the people of St. Maarten are being fooled or misled by these developers especially those at Coral Shores, and the Pelican Resort. Richardson then requested information on the ownership of the parcel of land that is located next to former BBW bagging plant in Simpson Bay. He said this land affair will be sending people to jail if they do not come clean with the project. Richardson said he heard the so called tape of Richardson and Goya which related to a project on that parcel of land. The council man said greed has destroyed the economy of St. Maarten since the investors fooled the people of the island while government sat by doing nothing. Richardson gave his own personal experience when he was building the Sunset Theaters and the guidelines he had to follow since locals were only allowed to build two floors building. He said it seems as if locals are being given a hard time to build dwelling homes while huge investors are getting the carte blanche in their scheme to shorten the government coffers.

He wants to know if government changed these policies to accommodate foreigners whom he said he building seven to eleven floors across from him.
Richardson said the same story goes for the beaches especially in Dawn Beach where people have no access to their beach due to one commissioner who is known to be flying on private jets with these developers.
Richardson said due to government silence on these crucial issues they are killing the goose that once laid the golden eggs on St. Maarten.
He then issued a strong call to Commissioner Heyliger to take a hard look at the erosion of Cole Bay Hill on the Bells Property. Something he said was caused by a developer. He asked the commissioner to do what he does best and plant back the trees that the developer claimed to have for the area. While he admitted he is no engineer he said he has the eyes of binoculars and are seeing what is happening to the hillside erosion.
Richardson then fired questions about the new government administration building that is sitting and being used as pigeon house. He wants to know if its monies that the island government had to waste to have an isolated building sitting on the Pond side.

While Island Councilman Rodulphe Samuel topped off the questions by asking the chairman of the island council if he had someone from his cabinet working or overseeing what is taking place at the VROM office. Samuel said he wants to know if the governor is aware of the happenings at ROB and if he personally ever sent up a permit for annulment.
Samuel said he is not prepared to hear excuses that other commissioners of government made a mistake in the past for this trend to continue instead he wants to see the commissioners taking responsibilities for the departments that is under them. He fired questions to Commissioner Theo Heyliger who took one of best assistants and sent him to ROB to overlook what is happening there. Samuel said the fact Heyliger did that he is personally aware of the illegalities that are taking place in that department and he should be open about it. Samuel also wants to know of the locals are given added bureaucracy to build homes on succession land while developers who have monies are given an easier ride. He asked that he be provided with the policies on the granting of these permits for both local homeowners and developers.
He also lambasted the commissioner of private jets and who boasted on numerous occasions that he is not using government credit card, since that commissioner is partly responsible for the alleged illegalities taking place at the VROM.

Government Admits there are Problems at ROB--- Measures are being taken--- Heyliger.

Requesting another half an hour to provide answers to the Island Council on the irregularities that are taken place at the Sector ROB only helped Commissioner Theo Heyliger to put together the number of things that are going wrong at the department. He said the executive council is not playing astringes and are not admitting that there are problems. However, he made clear that the matter is not something that can be dealt with easily since the private sector operates differently from government who in most cases has to be able to prove their cases and not just cast blame on people. He said just recently the executive council made a request to SOAB to conduct an investigation into all the departments where they are suspected wrongdoing. Heyliger said while politicians are often being blamed and or accused of being part of corruption that is far from the case. Heyliger said those very persons who wrote the policies are the ones that are abusing them and he has no intention to lie or cover up for anyone. "I will not stand here and deny that we have serious problems in the department, but one must consider that it is not easy to find people to work in government departments for salaries that are less than what garbage collectors are paid.

The ROB commissioner admitted on more than one occasion yesterday that business is not as usual at ROB and measures are being taken slowly. Reasons why the head of VROM was fired when he was actually caught wheeling and dealing. "While we have acted when the proof was provided in that case the executive council would take the same actions in other cases when it surfaces." Heyliger said.
Heyliger admitted that the sector director of ROB is the one who signs off on building permits which is to the value of Naf. 500, 000 which has been mandated by the executive council. He said the present policy that is being used is that of 1935. While permits which exceeds the 500, 000 mark has to be approved by the executive council and scrutinized by the governor's cabinet.

While persons whose permits have been denied does have the right to appeal and make the necessary amendments based on the guidelines given to them. The appeal process he said is in conformity of the LAR. PBA 2001 number 79. Persons applying for building permits have to pay an administrative fee of Naf. 200.

On the question on how many building permits were issued in the following years the commissioner in his break down said in the year 2006 320 permits were issued, 2007 302, 2008 148 while there is no figure for the year 2009. He said the island government collected Naf. 2.577.820 for the year 2006. Naf. 2.982.665,42 for 2007 and Naf. 1.395.276,71 for 2008.

Providing answers as to what government was aware of with regards to the large buildings that have been built the commissioner said in the beginning government was not fully aware due to the lack of personnel at the department of ROB. These personnel he said are charged with carrying out inspections and since they are undermanned they were not able to inspect the entire island. However, when government became fully aware the sector was instructed to take measures by issuing building stops. As for exemptions that were granted the commissioner said that based on the law that is not possible but admitted Blue Mall and other developers did receive exemptions since they circumvented the law, by applying for floors rather than buildings in many cases.
Heyliger then explained that he did received complaints on the heights of the building on Blijden's Drive but the sector did grant the permit.

The commissioner also acknowledged that the building across from Builders Paradise only got a permit for one floor. While there are several permits for the Marina at Cupecoy there is no permit for the marina and a building stop was issued. The construction of this project he said began in 2006 since the necessary permits were in place. Heyliger said the sector issued some 132 building stops in 2006, 147 in 2007 and 103 in 2008. As for the signing off of extra floors he said it had reached a fever pitch with the construction at the building on Billy Folley Road who was given a permit for the first five floors in 2007 while they received approval for two other floors by Delano Richardson former head of VROM. Heyliger said that developer got his permits while in construction while additional floors are seen as separate building permits which are handled as such by the department.
Heyliger also admitted that Civil Aviation and the PJIAE objected to the height of the Las Arenas building which exceeds the slope and the executive council did disregard these advises and issued an exemption.

As for Blue Mall he said they could have built up to 10 meters high based on the current development plan excluding the roof, and foundation. He said Blue Mall was authorized to build two parking floors in the basement in 2006 under the road level, two commercial floors and two residential floors. The developer he said requested an exemption in 2007 and it was granted for two additional floors in April 2008, while a building permit was requested for phase two of the project in June 2008 and it was granted in December the same year.
Heyliger vehemently denied that members of the island government were involved in a sting operation to trap the head of VROM Delano Richardson. He said the developer in this case sent a letter of complaint to the Lt. Governor where he supplied a tape claiming the civil servant wanted to extort monies from him in exchange for the building permit of phase 2 of the project which was granted in December 2008.

MARLIN REBUTS.

The commissioner and members of the executive council was highly criticized in the second round by leader of the National Alliance William Marlin who said that he wanted clarity on if any other commissioners gave developers verbal permission to build without a permit. Heyliger had said he personally he did not give such permissions to do so, thus prompting Marlin to ask if they are to conclude that other commissioners did just that.

The National Alliance leader said the answers that were provided in a very calm and cool atmosphere is quite revealing. He said these answers only leave one to wonder if all of this was happening and government did absolutely nothing to correct its problems. He asked where was government all this time and if they waited to see when a meeting was called on this matter, did not provide a quorum and now is trying to do damage control by saying they are taking corrective measures.

Marlin said while some of the answers were provided he wants to know who is building the next burial coops in Cay Hill in the form of a warehouse and who gave the permission to build this concrete jungle that hits people in the face as they come over the hill.

He said when listening to the answers given the executive council has admitted that the law is being circumvented and government is loosing monies through the loop holes that are being created by government. Marlin said the executive council is the one to be blamed since they are the ones who provided the gun for the corruption that is existing on the island.

He said government went to the extent and admitted that persons working for government abused their power in the ROB department and to date they have done nothing to correct these problems. Marlin said person or persons working at ROB created their own building permit policies within the existing permit to make business for themselves. He said the executive council created a fertile ground for corruption where one can request a building permit for one floor and make sure it is estimated to be under the Naf. 500, 000 so that the executive council does not see the request.

This process he said has repeated itself and today the government is saying the National Alliance are not the only ones that noticed the problem but they too did while refusing to accept responsibility and is blaming someone at sector ROB. He said the way government has answered the questions it appeared to him as if government still does not know who have granted these permissions since they have refused to name the culprits. He said about a year ago government took a decision when they realized there are problems in the sector with the department heads and they placed the power in the hands of one person who provides the signatures. He said while VROM was not in agreement with several of the exemption and building permits it was granted anyway despite the fact it is not in keeping with the building codes. He said instead of government dealing with the problems of the department heads they gave the sector director a mandate to sign off on any and everything.
He said when one reviews the answers given by government it behooves him to wonder if questions are not being asked when they see the permits are not being respected. He said something like this should have only happened once because when they saw a sector director is circumventing the law measures should be taken against the boys club at the ROB. He said he is extremely amused at the "Mickey mouse" game that the executive council is playing with the island council and the public of St. Maarten.
While island council man Frans Richardson shared the same opinion and made a second request for names to be called. He said ROB is a big department with several heads and he believes that the names of the persons who have been abusing their power should be exposed while measures should be taken just as it is taken against VROM head Delano Richardson.

 

Reuters) - Thousands of Opel workers from around Germany took part in a mass rally on Thursday demanding parent General Motors (GM.N) scrap plans for plant closures in Europe.

The global financial and economic crisis has sparked many protests in parts of Europe. Here are some details:

* BOSNIA -- Workers of Bosnia's only alumina producer Birac protested on Feb. 9 in Banja Luka, demanding salary payments and government support to offset falling metal prices.

* BRITAIN -- British workers held a series of protests at power plants, demonstrating against the employment of foreign contractors to work on critical energy sites.

-- The protests follow a week-long dispute at the Total-owned Lindsey oil refinery in Lincolnshire, which resulted in Total agreeing to hire more British workers on the project. Workers voted to end the unofficial strike on Feb. 5.

* BULGARIA -- Police officers, banned by law from striking, have held three "silent" protests since December to demand a 50 percent pay hike and better working conditions. Bulgaria, the poorest EU nation, has been hit by protests demanding the government take measures to shore up the economy.

-- Farmers blocked the only Danube bridge link with Romania and rallied across Bulgaria on Feb. 4 demanding the government set a minimum protective price for milk and stop imports of cheap substitutes.

* FRANCE -- President Nicolas Sarkozy faced criticism from both unions and bosses on Feb. 19 over new measures to tackle the economic crisis. Sarkozy offered an additional 2.65 billion euros ($3.4 billion) of social spending in an effort to quell labour unrest over a previous stimulus package that targeted investment rather than consumers. France's eight union federations called for a day of action on March 19.

-- Up to 2.5 million protesters took to the streets of France on Jan. 29 in a day of strikes and rallies to denounce the economic crisis but the strike failed to paralyse the country and support from private sector workers was limited.

-- A union representative was killed last week and several policemen wounded by protesters on the French Caribbean island in violence over the cost of living. Guadeloupe, a region of France and part of the EU, has been brought to a standstill in February by a general strike over high prices for food.

* GERMANY -- Thousands of Opel workers from around Germany took part in a mass rally at the company's headquarters, demanding on Thursday that parent General Motors scrap plans for plant closures in Europe. Vice Chancellor Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the rally, added, "This is about more than just Opel. It's about the future of the car industry in Germany." * GREECE -- Greek farmers protesting low product prices ended a two week blockade of a border crossing with Bulgaria on Feb. 7 when their demands for compensation were met. Greece had endured days of travel chaos with thousands of angry farmers setting roadblocks across the country, but most have ended after the government pledged 500 million euros ($640 million) in subsidies on products such as olive oil and wheat. -- High youth unemployment was a main driver for rioting in Greece in December, initially sparked by the police shooting of a youth in an Athens neighbourhood. The protests forced a government reshuffle.

* ICELAND -- Prime Minister Geir Haarde resigned on Jan. 26 after protests. The first leader in the world to fall as a direct result of the financial crisis, he was replaced by Johanna Sigurdardottir, who heads a new centre-left coalition.

* IRELAND -- Nearly 100,000 people marched through Dublin on Feb. 21 to protest at government cutbacks in the face of a deepening recession and bailouts for the banks.

* LATVIA -- A new Latvian prime minister was appointed on Thursday after the four-party ruling coalition collapsed on Feb. 20 and the president called for talks to forge a new government to tackle a deepening economic crisis. The government was the second to succumb to the financial crisis.

-- Latvia's agriculture minister had already gone on Feb. 3 amid protests by farmers over falling incomes. A 10,000-strong protest on Jan. 13 descended into a riot. Government steps to cut wages, as part of an austerity plan to win international aid, have angered people.

* LITHUANIA -- Police fired teargas lon Jan. 16 to disperse demonstrators who pelted parliament with stones in protest at cuts in social spending. Police said 80 people were detained and 20 injured. Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius said the violence would not stop an austerity plan.

* MONTENEGRO -- In Podgorica, aluminium workers demanded on Feb. 9 to be paid their salaries and an immediate restart of suspended production at the Kombinat Aluminijuma Podgorica (KAP), a Russian-owned plant.

* RUSSIA -- Hundreds of angry communists rallied in Moscow on Feb. 23 in protest at the Kremlin's handling of the crisis that has rocked the Russian economy, the latest in a series of demonstrations held across Russia as the economic crisis bites.

-- The opposition rallied about 350 people in central Moscow two days earlier to demand early presidential elections.

-- On Jan. 31, thousands of opposition supporters rallied in Moscow and the port of Vladivostok over hardships caused by the financial crisis. The next day hundreds of Moscow demonstrators called for Russia's leaders to resign.

* UKRAINE - Hundreds of Ukrainians protested at separate demonstrations on Feb. 23, with some urging President Viktor Yushchenko to quit while others demanded their money back from banks hit by the financial crisis.

 

Philipsburg- Commissioner responsible for Aviation Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, says that getting the airport road project off the ground at this time will give an impulse to the local economy. Another project will also be put on bid in the coming months that will once again contribute positively to the island economy, namely the FESA project.

The presentation of bids by contractors for the airport re-direction road project brings the project one step closer to realization.

"Although many persons have expressed concerns with regards to the pedestrian crossing in front of the terminal building, fortunately no major incidents have occurred as a result of the current crossing.

"However, cognizant of the safety aspect, as well as the inconvenience to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, airport management reviewed options for a re-routing of traffic in the area. This upgrade also includes the parking lot.

"I can fully concur with the Airport Director's Drs. Eugene Holiday remarks that this project will give an impulse to the economy. Same can be said for another airport related project, the so-called RESA project at the Southern end of the runway, which will also include a road re-routing, runway area extension and a dock for local fishermen.

"The intention is put this project on bid in the coming months, in order to comply with international airport safety requirements and again providing an economic impulse even larger than that of the road redirection, for which the bids were recently presented and made public," Commissioner of Aviation Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Thursday.

Philipsburg: --- The education department has decided to filter in the sixth graders of the Starlight Education Foundation into the regular government subsidized schools announced education commissioner Sarah Wescot Williams at Wednesday's press briefing. Wescot- Williams said government had to make a decision on the sixth graders since they are yet to hear from the Starlight Education and the business community on the reopening of the school. Wescot- Williams said that government is just proceeding with its plans to integrate the students who are out of school since January 9. While all students of the Starlight Education are being deprived of an education Wescot Williams said the 6th graders are being singled out since they should be preparing for the high school entrance examination.

The education commissioner also reminds parents of 4 to 6 year old children to contact the education department to register their children. She advised parents to walk with their child's birth certificate, copy of child's passport including the information page as well as a copy of the child's residency permit if they are in possession of one. She said the island government is busy implementing the compulsory education which is applicable to St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said the registration is necessary so that they can get an idea on how many illegal students there are on the island. She advised parents to monitor the newspapers for the notification for the registration.

Asked if the island government is ready to accept the challenge and if they have enough classrooms and teachers to accommodate all the students of Starlight Education center the commissioner said she could not give a definite answer since they simply do not know how many students they need to cater for.

Asked if the island government is looking into granting a more structural solution for the education institution the education commissioner said the island government began discussions with the institution but when it was made known that the private sector was willing to help the discussions stopped. She said for Starlight Education to receive subsidy they would need to meet certain conditions and criteria. Asked if the island government is considering the possibility of placing the students and the vacant space at the Martin Luther King Jr. School Wescot Williams said they are not because that location has to be repaired and will be used by the foundation for public education.

In the meantime, liaison officer and former civil servant Roberto Richardson said the foundation is close to closing a deal with the proprietor of the building who had the marshals placed padlocks on the school door for the lack of rent payments. Richardson said he met with landlord on several occasions to bring the matter to a close but the landlord who is obviously disappointed and hurt is trying to make sure everything is in place before reopening the doors of the school. He said the business community has done their part by making sure they have the monies in place to cover the arrears as well as rent up until August 1 2009. However, the landlord he said decided on Tuesday that she would not sign the new agreement until it has been looked at by her lawyer. Richardson said he already submitted a copy of the agreement to the proprietor's lawyer and he is confident that the matter would resolve by the end of today. He said the landlord has decided to take those steps due past promises that was made by other businesses and was not kept. He said that the landlord already indicated that if they do not have something tangible they would not remove the padlocks.
Furthermore, he said he fully understand why the landlord is taking the necessary precaution since the school management did not pay their rents for over a year.

Richardson further explained that his role is not only to get the school reopen but the businesses have indicated that they would assist management of Starlight with their finances and accounting so that this situation does not reoccur. The former civil servant said he is also busy negotiating with the education department to make sure Starlight Education Foundation get on board for government subsidy. He said he would be working very closely with the school to make sure they meet the necessary criteria to qualify for the subsidy based on the education policy. Richardson said he already held discussions with Quincy Harrigan and Mrs. Foresight- Labega regarding the school. He said he already indicated to government that the businesses are ready to work hand in hand with government until they do what is necessary to implement compulsory education which is now in its initial phases.

Philipsburg: --- Two students of the St. Maarten Vocational School are now behind bars suspected of raping another student of the school. SMN News understands that the victim is said to be somewhat retarded or slow.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the incident did not take place at the school but it occurred sometime last week. It is said the two youths took the teenager to another location where they committed the act.
One of the suspects identified as R was arrested at the school on Thursday along with the other suspect.
Contacted for a comment on the case Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein said he is not aware of the case.

Philipsburg: --- Commissioner of education Sarah Wescot Williams said the plans for the Vocational School that is to be built in Cay Hill is now ready and the departments are now busy looking at the plans. The new school has an estimated cost of 5.2 million guilders the education commissioner said. Wescot Williams said that this new school is all part of government's vision to expand the education system for the betterment of the citizens. Students who just finish their secondary education would get the opportunity to further pursue their vocational studies locally rather than having to leave the island.

She said until now students wishing to continue their education have to leave the island and this has created a social and financial burden on many families and the entire island. While the consequences that faces those students who choose to remain here after finishing their secondary education faces a mismatch within the labor market.
The education to facilitate the furthering and monitoring of further vocational training on the island. The new school would consists of classrooms and skill labs with includes kitchen and restaurant facilities that would not only be available to students but also to those persons who did not have the opportunity to fulfill their career path. She said even adults would get the opportunity to upgrade themselves to be in line with the job market.

The significant and tremendous success of Nevis Multi Line Services in Nevis is largely attributable to the fact that the company has made its items very affordable and competitive for ordinary people, this is according to Managing Director of NEMUS, Andy Liburd.

Liburd who has been credited as one of the very prominent successful businessmen in Nevis noted that hard work and a spirit of determination are also important to cushion the success. Liburd pointed out that when NEMUS made its entrance into the St Kitts and Nevis market despite the fact that they were several other competitors the prices offered by his company were acceptable and affordable, thus having a profound impact and that impact resonates up to today.

Giving an assessment of his business operations, Liburd said that while he credits 2008 as a satisfactory year he anticipates a very challenging year for 2009.

According to NEMUS MD the company had increased its sales levels in 2008 over the previous year noting that due to a number of challenging factors they were bracing itself for "a tough year" in 2009. "Frankly speaking I am not that sure that I am not sure that we can anticipate much growth in 2009 however if the lingering challenges are eradicated then I will be very happy as that can and will transcend into profit," Liburd said.

The MD noted that his company while being regarded as small had already begun to respond to an anticipated tough year by implementing a number of new strategies so as to address the issues. He pointed out that one such strategy ha been the implementation of greater emphasis on creating an environment that will further enhance its relations with its customers as customers are critically important to the sustainability of any business.

"We have ensured that we took the time to look within our own business to determine whether or not we are doing things as well as we can and whether we are creating the best possible offers for customers as without customers then you are out in the cold."

Liburd went on to note that his primary business focus for this year is to work towards maintaining, even increasing its market leadership as this would be an important area that needs to be addressed.

Commenting on new and innovative initiatives that NEMUS would be undertaking so as to continue being proactive Liburd said, "We have sought to concentrate our attention on focusing on a lot of activities which includes working more on marketing and public relations".

Liburd who is a firm believer that public relations is not essential owing to his quite nature lifestyle noted that more will have to be done taking into consideration that a number of persons are not aware of his company's attractive and really competitive prices. He admitted that in sourcing materials for his company significant and aggressive marketing is done so as to garner the best prices. "Sometimes we go around the world just to get the best prices for our clients as we believe that the best and most affordable prices should be offered continuously to the public. We believe that NEMUS will become even more relevant to both St Kitts and Nevis in 2009 taking into consideration that the world is faced with its global financial difficulties," Liburd said.

NEMUS Office Manager Corinne Caines said that during this year the company sought ways so as to maintain and create opportunities for its clients. She made reference to previous years noting that NEMUS has always done business with the clients' interest as its primary objective. "NEMUS always believes that satisfaction and a professional execution of service to our customers are critically important thus we have and continues to operate upon that principle," she said.

"We strongly hold the view that by continually improving the quality of our service we are putting ourselves in a firmer and secure position to maintain our market leadership position," Caines added.

Meanwhile, according to Liburd he said that despite 2008 was a year graced with a numerous challenges he is excited that the level of business that was done last year had surpassed the previous year. "Ï must note that 2008 had indeed begun very well however by the second half of the year the economic and financial challenges that had raised its ugly head as the credit crunch in the United States had ripple effects elsewhere".

Liburd added, "While this did not necessarily impact directly on NEMUS what it did do was change the mindset of the local consumer and like many other businesses we started to see a more cautious approach purchasing which created spin off effects in a number of sectors that would not otherwise have been the case.

Marigot: ------ The teachers from the Lycee and the Colleges on St. Martin plans to resume classes today says President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs. The decision came after a vote at a general assembly. However, the teachers has planned a protest march for March 3rd to coincide with the arrival of the general secretary of the Recorat of Guadeloupe.

The teachers met with the territorial council yesterday where they further discuss their grievances which led to a week long strike.
Even though the teachers are going back to school today Wednesday they are going to be out for another week since school will be closing at the end of the week for the annual carnival vacation. During this period of time the teachers along with the other unions representing the LC Fleming Hospital, EDF and the Collectivity workers and the MOCSAM would continue to negotiate their grievances with the elected officials.
Right now the teachers it is said realized they are the only ones trying to fight for St. Martin while the locals are going to work everyday.

Gumbs said that the MOCSAM members met yesterday evening where they debated the document the COM presented to them on Monday afternoon. He said the MOCSAM will be presenting the COM with a response on the document latest today as they continue to negotiate on behalf of the people of St. Martin.
He said right now they are planning to use other strategies to further mobilize the population. "With the march last Friday we were able to send a clear message to the elected officials and now we are moving forward. If those elected does not give us favorable answers then we would have to get back to the streets" says Julien Gumbs.

The teachers have decided to return to work after reviewing the calendar that was presented to them by the Collectivity. On that calendar it is clearly indicated that much needed renovations will be completed by September 1 at the Lycee and other establishments. The set of repairs will begin next week when school is out.

Syndicat Nationale des Enseignants Secondaires (SNES) union negotiator Laurent Bayley said teachers were mostly satisfied with the promises, but indicated a small minority of teachers, about 20 per cent, will continue the strike action in support of their family and friends who were arrested during their protest action.

Pointe Blanche:--- The St. Maarten Port Service has filed a request at the Federal Labour Department to dismiss 45 of its workers since they have lost one of their biggest contract "Tropical Shipping" to Intermar.
Already four of the employees who were on contract have been notified that their contract will not be renewed due to the latest developments. While the dismissal procedure is now underway at the Federal Labour Department for the other workers which amounts to 45.
It is understood that Tropical Shipping was providing at least 80% of the income at the St. Maarten Port Services which covers the salaries and other expenses for the 47 employees that are working for the company.

St. Maarten Port Services also filed an injunction against Tropical Shipping last week since they only gave the company 60 days notice even though the company has been providing services to them for the past 25 years.
According to the documents presented in the court case the company did not consider the long standing relationship, neither did they consider the staff and equipment, including the facilities the company has to take care of within the short notice. It is understood that management of St. Maarten Ports Services would do whatever is necessary to keep their doors open even if it means an appeal of the verdict when it comes next week. In case the court rules in favor of the St. Maarten Port Services then the company would withdraw their dismissal request from the Labor Department sources tells this media house.

Assistant mediator of the Federal Labor Department Kenneth Lopes confirmed that he received the request on January 30th and the process he said is underway. Lopes said the executive council will be notified latest today of the developments.
In an invited comment Carolene Buncamper CEO of St. Maarten Port Services confirmed the information but said due to the court procedure she is not at liberty to elaborate on the issue.

Pundits have it that this is another political and get rich scheme for commissioners since one of the commissioners is directly linked to Intermar who is now providing 90% of the shipping services on the island which has created a monopoly. One of the main concerns for companies that are importing goods to St. Maarten.

Sources say that even the expansion of the AC Wathey Cruise Facility has changed to further facilitate the commissioner of Ports Services. This they said have created a conflict of interest but no one is paying heed to good governance.

Already businesses on the island are crying out loud due to the worldwide economic situation and with 45 people loosing work would be another blow to the island. The commissioner of labor already said the only way to keep the economy on St. Maarten afloat is by keeping people on the job. However, this will not be the case at the St. Maarten Port Services.

Philipsburg- So far during the official working visit of Commissioner responsible for Education Affairs Sarah Wescot-Williams, to the Capital City of Florida, Tallahassee, much interest has been expressed in the island based on Wescot's deliberations with government and private sector officials.
During a dinner reception held in her honour on Tuesday evening organized by LINKS Inc., Leader of Government Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams was bombarded with questions about the island with respect to investments, public sector and constitutional renewal. During the reception, LINKS Inc. renewed their commitment to continue to assist St. Maarten students studying in Florida.
LINKS Inc. representatives also commended Head of Study Financing Calvin Mardenborough for his work and relationship with universities and students ensuring that St. Maarten continues to get the best out of the Sister City agreement in the area of education.
Commissioner Wescot-Williams and delegation member Head of Study Financing Calvin Mardenborough, arrived in Tallahassee late Tuesday afternoon and were greeted at the airport by the Mayor's representative Carrie Blanchard, City representative Ben Harris, and representatives of the board of the St. Maarten-Tallahassee Students Association, Stephen Knight, President of the Tallahassee-St. Maarten Foundation, and St. Maarten Government Liaison Arthur Lugissee.
During a meeting on Wednesday with Director of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development Dale Brill and International Affairs Liaison Eric Graham, the discussions focused on the opportunity for St. Maarten to be considered in Florida's on-going international program.
Florida House Representative Senator Allen Williams (Florida Legislative Black Caucus) committed himself to working with St. Maarten in all areas of interest set forth by Commissioner Wescot-Williams.
During a meeting with Mayor John Marks at City Hall on Wednesday, the Mayor expressed to St. Maarten's Leader of Government his continued interest in the Sister City partnership and his willingness to continue to support the program.
After a tour of the City Traffic Control Security System, the Fire Chief of Tallahassee Cindy Dick stated that they are committed to lending assistance to St. Maarten in what ever way necessary.
Commissioner Andrew Gillum in discussions with Commissioner Wescot-Williams discussed the on-going relationship with the City of Tallahassee and Gillum committed himself to a number of projects.
The Leader of Government is expected back on island February 22.

Philipsburg: --- The teams of investigators that have taken over the investigation of missing American Leta Lynn Cordes are back to square one since there have been no major leads during the one week search that took place on the French Side of the island last week.

Last week friends of Leta Cordes arrived on the island with cadaver dogs and searched mainly the Le Galleon Beach to see if they would come up with her body, which would have helped solved the case. Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein said the search has been stopped over the weekend and nothing major was found. He said due to this nothing has changed in the case. Asked if the taped interview with Frank Cordes shed any light into the investigation Stein said he did not think so. Last week local journalist Lisa MacKay Brown was also questioned by the detectives but that too did not lead to anywhere.

Leta Lynn Cordes disappeared on January 11 2008 after she allegedly left her home to go over to the Westin Casino to gamble. Her husband Frank Cordes who remains a suspect in the case said she was drunk at the time. He also admitted on more than one occasion that the two had an argument the day she disappeared. Frank Cordes spent close to four months behind bars during his pretrial detention but was released on the request of the prosecutors since they only have circumstantial information on the case.

The case of Frank and Leta Lynn Cordes brings to mind the case of Laci nd Scott Peterson. Laci Peterson disappeared on December 4 2002 she was seven and half months pregnant when she disappeared. Her husband Scott Peterson was convicted on first degree murder of his wife and second degree for his unborn son. He is now on the death row at the San Quentin Prison.

Philipsburg- Commissioner of Youth Affairs Maria Buncamper-Molanus, would like to congratulate the 42 youth leaders who recently completed a 10-hour basic staff training course in youth leadership.
Commissioner Buncamper says the island should have a strong cadre of youth leaders to help the nation's young people develop their personal leadership skills and begin to set goals and directions for their lives beginning at an earlier age.
The staff training course was offered to Pathfinders in St. Maarten who will start to work with the Pathfinder Club next year. Youth leaders were trained in eight segments
"Youth organizations provide many different opportunities for youth to develop and practice their leadership skills and styles. These include from serving on an organizing committee, planning an event, public speaking or networking with other organizations.
"I encourage parents and guardians to encourage their children to join youth organizations as it builds a foundation for them where it concerns leadership. Providing training for youth who serve in these leadership capacities is essential so that youth feel confident in fulfilling the challenges required of them.
"Once young people have achieved a measure of success within a youth organization, they will continue to strive for more demanding and difficult roles.
"Youth facilitators play an important role in the development of self-esteem, self development, creativity, ethics and values, understanding leadership and authority, goal attainment, group dynamics, teamwork, problem solving and communication skills.
"I wish the 42 youth facilitators much success with their endeavors in youth development within the Pathfinder organization," Commissioner of Youth Affairs Maria Buncamper-Molanus told the (GIS).

Philipsburg:---Commissioner of Economic Affairs Maria Buncamper-Molanus stressed Wednesday that she has the utmost faith in the resiliency of the people of St. Maarten to endure and ultimately overcome these challenging economic times. "It is this factor, along with government actions, that will ultimately see us through a crisis that people all over the world is experiencing," the Commissioner said.

Buncamper-Molanus said she has always spoken frankly and directly to the people of St. Maarten about the local economic situation and world-wide financial crisis. She said while she never sugar-coated anything, she has always considered the potential economic impact that constant gloom and doom messages have on the conscious and sub-conscious of every consumer.

"We are all aware of the situation, we look forward to the possible mitigating measures that will be explored at the upcoming Economic Summit and cannot ignore that attitudes have to change in terms of people's lifestyles. However we will only serve to weaken consumer confidence and demand if we allow negative messages to permeate in our community," the Commissioner said.

She continued: "Once consumption starts to slide, businesses will start to lay-off workers, who will not be able to pay their rents, electricity, school fees and buy food. This will start the downward slope of the economy and all the negative consequences associated therewith such as crime, drugs, physical-, mental and possibly even sexual abuse."

Recalling the difficult times that St. Maarten, its people and its businesses had to endure in the past, the Commissioner said she has no doubt that St. Maarten will emerge from the current crisis in good shape. "We are a resilient people. We have been through challenging times before, God-made or otherwise. We have proven that we have always been able to rise to meet any challenge that stands before us. I have no reason to think any differently this time around," she said.

She added that government, including the opposition, must start to encourage our constituents that they need to take whatever precautionary measures necessary to weather the storm. "If we can do it for a hurricane, we must do it for this economic hurricane. It is a responsibility our people have to themselves and to St. Maarten just as we, their elected representatives, have a responsibility to them and St. Maarten," she said.

The opposition's time should be constructively spent, she says, by being frank with the population about "belt tightening" rather than blaming government for a crisis that was not created by government. She said she respect's the opposition's rights to question government, but urged them to be responsible and not only to try or attempt to make the government look bad, unprepared and/or un-caring but to inform, educate and encourage our people about the role they can play in safeguarding and protecting their own livelihood.

"To this end, buy what is necessary, limit conspicuous (unnecessary) consumption, take care of our basic needs and work hard to ensure that your employer stays in business as this is also your direct source of income and to be able to provide for yourself and family. The opposition and Government might not always agree on everything, but I believe we have consensus on the fact that the economic situation requires the attention and contributions of all of us. We must find common ground in order to lead St. Maarten through this storm," Buncamper-Molanus concluded.

Marigot: --- A 40-year old man is now dead from injuries he sustained in a motor cycle crash on Grand Case Boulevard on Friday.
In a press release gendarmes said that the accident occurred on a one way street when the rider lost control of his motor cycle when going over a speed bump.
The rider was thrown against a wall after rolling several times on the road. The motorbike continued rolling down the road and came to a stop some distance away.
The victim was transported to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital where he received emergency surgery for multiple fractures to his legs. The gendarmes said the motor cycle had disappeared from the scene by the time they arrived on the scene. The victim succumbed to his injuries early Saturday morning. The gendarmes already concluded that the accident was caused because the rider had lost control of his machine. Toxicology tests would be conducted.

Philipsburg:--- Commissioner Roy Marlin said at yesterday's press briefing that he is somewhat disappointed with the way Minister of Personnel Affairs Roland Duncan is handling the situation of the employees at the Inspectorate of Taxes. Marlin said that the workers do have rights and the Minister should not just sit there and not represent them. Workers of the Inspectorate of Taxes has requested a 25% salary increase after they learnt that there colleagues in Curacao received the increase.

However the Minister of finance has denied the St. Maarten based workers saying they are not performing optimally. Marlin said the Minister gave Curacao workers the increase because she felt the work load at the tax inspectorate was visible. Marlin said directorate on St. Maarten also motivated his request since the workload here is also heavy.
Marlin said the Minister is not the one to make the decision alone since this decision has to be taken by the council of ministers where he Duncan is a member. Duncan should put down his foot and deal with the Minister of finance. Marlin he also believes the two senators from St. Maarten should get involve in the matter so that St. Maarten tax inspectorate employees can get what they deserved.
Marlin said Duncan should not just sit back and say it is not his responsibility since he is the Minister of personnel affairs instead he should be looking out for these employees. Marlin said these employees do deserve this increase and if the Minister does not comply then the island government would have to give the additional monies to the employees when they request it.

Philipsburg: --- While two of the five suspects that were arrested for the murder of 14 year old Akeem Lake the prosecutor's office remained tightlipped on the ongoing investigation. Chief Prosecutor Taco Stein confirmed that two of the five suspects have been released since they were not heavily involved with the cold blooded killing.
Asked if authorities managed to secure a confession from any of the three suspects who remained behind bars Stein said he was not willing to divulge that kind of information at this time. However, he did say that the investigation is progressing satisfactorily. Akeem Lake was shot some ten months ago in Union Farm in a drive by shooting. Lake was just a few days short his 15th birthday was living among gang members since he had dropped out of school. It was said at the time of the killing that he had an argument with a group of boys about a scooter. Lake was with a scooter at the time of his death.

Maho: ---Despite a late and sluggish start the two young women who represented the island of Anguilla in the 37th Annual Leeward Islands Debating Competition came out on top beating their proposition Island of Montserrat. The moot for the first night was "The Present Practice of Spending Millions on Sports is Justifiable".
Representing Anguilla was Olufunmille Banks who not only won the night's debate but she managed to capture the best speaker's prize. Banks was accompanied Mekela Shellekie who managed to capture the keen attention of the three judges. Anguilla gained 280 points over Montserrat with 191.

The pair who did thorough research on how much money are spent on sports and how little is returned to society. They said while sports are beneficial to ones health it is only the elites that benefit from huge salaries at the expense of tax payers while the poor and middle class does not. These monies they said can be better spent on education and health care. Comparison was made to the amount of monies Africa plans to spend on security for the 2010 games while people in that country is dying of HIV and AIDS. Another stark reality that was pointed out by the Anguillan teams is the mismanagement of funding and corruption in the sporting industry has created.
The judges find that the Anguillans did a much better presentation in content as well as how composed they were they made it easier for everyone to understand, while Adena Johnson and Seymoura Dyett was advised to speak slower the next time they debate and try to convince themselves of what they are saying. Chief Judge of the night Taco Stein said it was evident that the main presenter for the Montserrat team Adena Johnson was not convinced with what she herself was saying. He also felt that if Johnson had taken her time to speak and articulate then her team may have scored more.
Present to witness the debate which is organized by the Hyacinth Richardson Foundation was the president of the foundation and his wife, Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards who gave the opening speech, leader of government and commissioner of education Sarah Wescot Williams and Dr. J. A George Irish founder of the Leeward Islands Debating Competition (LIDC).